Tamper-resistant tablet providing immediate drug release

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a tamper-resistant tablet comprising
         (i) a matrix material in an amount of more than one third of the total weight of the tablet; and   (ii) a plurality of particulates in an amount of less than two thirds of the total weight of the tablet; wherein said particulates comprise a pharmacologically active compound and a polyalkylene oxide; and form a discontinuous phase within the matrix material;
 
and method of using said tablet to treat pain and other conditions.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/512,939, filed on Jul. 29, 2011, and European Patent ApplicationNo. 11 006 253.6, filed on Jul. 29, 2011, the contents of both of whichpatent applications are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to tamper-resistant tablets comprising a matrixmaterial and a plurality of particulates which comprise apharmacologically active compound and form a discontinuous phase withinthe matrix material.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A large number of pharmacologically active substances have a potentialfor being abused or misused, i.e. they can be used to produce effectswhich are not consistent with their intended use. Thus, e.g. opioidswhich exhibit an excellent efficacy in controlling severe to extremelysevere pain, are frequently abused to induce euphoric states similar tobeing intoxicated. In particular, active substances which have apsychotropic effect are abused accordingly.

To enable abuse, the corresponding dosage forms, such as tablets orcapsules are crushed, for example ground by the abuser, the activesubstance is extracted from the thus obtained powder using a preferablyaqueous liquid and after being optionally filtered through cotton woolor cellulose wadding, the resultant solution is administeredparenterally, in particular intravenously. This type of dosage resultsin an even faster diffusion of the active substance compared to the oralabuse, with the result desired by the abuser, namely the kick. This kickor these intoxication-like, euphoric states are also reached if thepowdered dosage form is administered nasally, i.e. is sniffed.

Various concepts for the avoidance of drug abuse have been developed.

It has been proposed to incorporate in dosage forms aversive agentsand/or antagonists in a manner so that they only produce their aversiveand/or antagonizing effects when the dosage forms are tampered with.However, the presence of such aversive agents is principally notdesirable and there is a need to provide sufficient tamper-resistancewithout relying on aversive agents and/or antagonists.

Another concept to prevent abuse relies on the mechanical properties ofthe pharmaceutical dosage forms, particularly an increased breakingstrength (resistance to crushing). The major advantage of suchpharmaceutical dosage forms is that comminuting, particularlypulverization, by conventional means, such as grinding in a mortar orfracturing by means of a hammer, is impossible or at least substantiallyimpeded. Thus, the pulverization, necessary for abuse, of the dosageforms by the means usually available to a potential abuser is preventedor at least complicated.

Such pharmaceutical dosage forms are useful for avoiding drug abuse ofthe pharmacologically active compound contained therein, as they may notbe powdered by conventional means and thus, cannot be administered inpowdered form, e.g. nasally. The mechanical properties, particularly thehigh breaking strength of these pharmaceutical dosage forms renders themtamper-resistant. In the context of such tamper-resistant pharmaceuticaldosage forms it can be referred to, e.g., WO 2005/016313, WO2005/016314, WO 2005/063214, WO 2005/102286, WO 2006/002883, WO2006/002884, WO 2006/002886, WO 2006/082097, WO 2006/082099, andWO2009/092601.

These dosage forms secured against abuse are distinguished by acontrolled, preferably retarded release of the active substance whichhas abuse potential. However, a rapid release of the active substance isnecessary for numerous therapeutic applications, for example pain reliefusing active substances with abuse potential.

WO 2010/140007 discloses dosage forms comprising melt-extrudedparticulates comprising a drug, wherein said melt-extruded particulatesare present as a discontinuous phase in a matrix. The dosage formsprovide prolonged release of the drug.

WO 2008/107149 discloses multiparticulate dosage forms with impededabuse containing, one or more active substances having abuse potential,at least one synthetic or natural polymer, and at least onedisintegrant, with the individual particles of the tablet having abreaking strength of at least 500 N and a release of the activesubstance of at least 75% after 45 minutes. The exemplified capsulesprovide rapid release of the pharmacologically active compound.

US 2010/0092553 discloses solid multiparticulate oral pharmaceuticalforms whose composition and structure make it possible to avoid misuse.The microparticles have an extremely thick coating layer which assuresthe modified release of the drug and simultaneously imparts crushingresistance to the coated microparticles so as to avoid misuse.

WO 2008/033523 discloses a pharmaceutical composition that may include agranulate which may at least include one active pharmaceuticalingredient susceptible to abuse. The particle contains both an alcoholsoluble and alcohol insoluble and at least partially water solublematerial. Both materials are granulated in the presence of alcohol andwater. The granulate may also include a coating on the granulateexhibiting crush resistance. Material deposition on the granule isperformed using an alcohol based solvent.

The properties of capsules, however, are not satisfactory in everyrespect, e.g. with respect to disintegration time, patient compliance(e.g. swallowability) and ease of manufacture. Further, capsulesfrequently contain gelatine thus causing the risk of bovine spongiformencephalopathy (BSE, or TSE). As far as tamper-resistant dosage formsare concerned, capsules are disadvantageous as they can typically beopened easily thereby releasing the ingredients in powdery orparticulate form without requiring any mechanical impact. If componentsof different type are contained in a capsule, e.g. drug-containingparticles besides drug-free particles, a potential abuser might be ableto visually distinguish the intact, undisrupted components of differenttype (e.g. according to their color, size or other macroscopicproperties) allowing for manual separation.

The properties of these tamper-resistant dosage forms, however, are notsatisfactory in every respect. There is a need for tamper-resistantdosage forms that possess crush resistance and release thepharmacologically active compound as quick as possible (immediaterelease), i.e. should show a gradual increase reaching 85% to 100% atabout 30 to 45 minutes or earlier. The dosage form should advantageouslybe of a shape, size and weight that can be taken orally with ease. Ofcourse, the dosage form should also be easy to make in a cost effectivemanner. When trying to tamper the dosage form in order to prepare aformulation suitable for abuse by intravenous administration, the liquidpart of the formulation that can be separated from the remainder bymeans of a syringe should be as less as possible, e.g. should containnot more than 20 wt.-% of the pharmacologically active compoundoriginally contained in the dosage form.

It is an object according to the invention to provide tamper-resistantpharmaceutical dosage forms that provide rapid release of thepharmacologically active compound and that have advantages compared tothe tamper-resistant pharmaceutical dosage forms of the prior art.

This object has been achieved by the patent claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a tamper-resistant tablet, preferably for oraladministration, comprising

-   -   (i) a matrix material in an amount of more than one third of the        total weight of the tablet; and    -   (ii) a plurality of particulates in an amount of less than two        thirds of the total weight of the tablet; wherein said        particulates comprise a pharmacologically active compound and a        polyalkylene oxide; and form a discontinuous phase within the        matrix material.

It has been surprisingly found that the in vitro release profile oftamper-resistant dosage forms can be accelerated by embeddingparticulates containing the pharmacologically active compound in amatrix material and increasing the relative weight ratio of the matrixmaterial to the particulates.

Further, it has been surprisingly found that mixtures of matrixmaterial, optionally in pre-compacted or pre-granulated form, can bemixed with the particulates and subsequently be compacted to tabletswhich in turn exhibit excellent, i.e. accelerated disintegration timesand in vitro release characteristics.

Still further, it has been surprisingly found that oral dosage forms canbe designed that provide the best compromise between tamper-resistance,disintegration time and drug release, drug load, processability(especially tablettability) and patient compliance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described in greater detail with reference tothe drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a preferred embodiment of the tabletsaccording to the invention.

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates another preferred embodiment of thetablets according to the invention.

FIG. 3 shows in vitro release profiles of different tablets according tothe invention having different compositions and particulate sizes.

FIG. 4 shows in vitro release profiles of different tablets according tothe invention having different compositions.

FIG. 5 illustrates the behavior of the particulates contained in thetablets according to the invention when being subjected to a breakingstrength test, in particular their deformability.

FIG. 6 illustrates the behavior of conventional particulates when beingsubjected to a breaking strength test.

FIG. 7 shows the distance-force-diagram obtained by measuring themechanical properties of conventional particulates.

FIG. 8 shows the distance-force-diagram obtained by measuring themechanical properties of particulates according to the invention.

FIG. 9 shows the distance-force-diagram obtained by measuring themechanical properties of particulates according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used herein, the term “tablet” refers to a pharmaceutical entity thatis comprised of a pharmacologically active compound and which isactually administered to, or taken by, a patient. It may be compressedor molded in its manufacture, and it may be of almost any size, shape,weight, and color. Most tablets are intended to be swallowed whole andaccordingly, preferred tablets according to the invention are designedfor oral administration. However, alternatively tablets may be dissolvedin the mouth, chewed, or dissolved in liquid before swallowing, and somemay be placed in a body cavity. Thus, the tablet according to theinvention may alternatively be adapted for buccal, lingual, rectal orvaginal administration. Implants are also possible.

The tablet according to the invention preferably can be regarded as aMUPS formulation (multiple unit pellet system). In a preferredembodiment, the tablet according to the invention is monolithic. Inanother preferred embodiment, the tablet according to the invention isnot monolithic. In this regard, monolithic preferably means that thetablet is formed or composed of material without joints or seams orconsists of or constitutes a single unit.

Preferably, the tablet according to the invention contains allingredients in a dense compact unit which in comparison to capsules hasa comparatively high density.

The tablets according to the invention comprise subunits havingdifferent morphology and properties, namely drug-containing particulatesand matrix material, wherein the particulates form a discontinuous phasewithin the matrix material. The particulates typically have mechanicalproperties that differ from the mechanical properties of the matrixmaterial. Preferably, the particulates have a higher mechanical strengththan the matrix material. The particulates within the tablets accordingto the invention can be visualized by conventional means such as solidstate nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, raster electronmicroscopy, terahertz spectroscopy and the like.

An advantage of the tablets according to the invention is that the sameparticulates may be mixed with matrix material in different amounts tothereby produce tablets of different strengths.

The tablet according to the invention has preferably a total weight inthe range of 0.01 to 1.5 g, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 1.2g, still more preferably in the range of 0.1 g to 1.0 g, yet morepreferably in the range of 0.2 g to 0.9 g, and most preferably in therange of 0.3 g to 0.8 g. In a preferred embodiment, the total tabletweight is within the range of 500±450 mg, more preferably 500±300 mg,still more preferably 500±200 mg, yet more preferably 500±150 mg, mostpreferably 500±100 mg, and in particular 500±50 mg.

It has been surprisingly found that the total tablet weight, which is afunction of the total size of the tablet, can be optimized in order toprovide the best compromise between tamper-resistance, disintegrationtime and drug release, drug load, processability (especiallytablettability) and patient compliance.

In a preferred embodiment, the tablet according to the invention is around tablet. Tablets of this embodiment preferably have a diameter inthe range of about 1 mm to about 30 mm, in particular in the range ofabout 2 mm to about 25 mm, more in particular about 5 mm to about 23 mm,even more in particular about 7 mm to about 13 mm; and a thickness inthe range of about 1.0 mm to about 12 mm, in particular in the range ofabout 2.0 mm to about 10 mm, even more in particular from 3.0 mm toabout 9.0 mm, even further in particular from about 4.0 mm to about 8.0mm.

In another preferred embodiment, the tablet according to the inventionis an oblong tablet. Tablets of this embodiment preferably have alengthwise extension (longitudinal extension) of about 1 mm to about 30mm, in particular in the range of about 2 mm to about 25 mm, more inparticular about 5 mm to about 23 mm, even more in particular about 7 mmto about 20 mm; a width in the range of about 1 mm to about 30 mm, inparticular in the range of about 2 mm to about 25 mm, more in particularabout 5 mm to about 23 mm, even more in particular about 7 mm to about13 mm; and a thickness in the range of about 1.0 mm to about 12 mm, inparticular in the range of about 2.0 mm to about 10 mm, even more inparticular from 3.0 mm to about 9.0 mm, even further in particular fromabout 4.0 mm to about 8.0 mm.

The tablets according to the invention can optionally be provided,partially or completely, with a conventional coating. The tabletsaccording to the invention are preferably film coated with conventionalfilm coating compositions. Suitable coating materials are commerciallyavailable, e.g. under the trademarks Opadry® and Eudragit®.

Examples of suitable materials include cellulose esters and celluloseethers, such as methyl-cellulose (MC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose(HPMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC),sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC), poly(meth)-acrylates, such asaminoalkylmethacrylate copolymers, methacrylic acid methylmethacrylatecopolymers, methacrylic acid methylmethacrylate copolymers; vinylpolymers, such as polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol,polyvinylacetate; and natural film formers.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the coating is water-soluble. Ina preferred embodiment, the coating is based on polyvinyl alcohol, suchas polyvinyl alcohol-part. hydrolyzed, and may additionally containpolyethylene glycol, such as macrogol 3350, and/or pigments. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the coating is based onhydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose, preferably hypromellose type 2910 havinga viscosity of 3 to 15 mPas.

The coating can be resistant to gastric juices and dissolve as afunction of the pH value of the release environment. By means of thiscoating, it is possible to ensure that the tablet according to theinvention passes through the stomach undissolved and the active compoundis only released in the intestines. The coating which is resistant togastric juices preferably dissolves at a pH value of between 5 and 7.5.

The coating can also be applied e.g. to improve the aesthetic impressionand/or the taste of the tablets and the ease with which they can beswallowed. Coating the tablets according to the invention can also serveother purposes, e.g. improving stability and shelf-life. Suitablecoating formulations comprise a film forming polymer such as, forexample, polyvinyl alcohol or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, e.g.hypromellose, a plasticizer such as, for example, a glycol, e.g.propylene glycol or polyethylene glycol, an opacifier, such as, forexample, titanium dioxide, and a film smoothener, such as, for example,talc. Suitable coating solvents are water as well as organic solvents.Examples of organic solvents are alcohols, e.g. ethanol or isopropanol,ketones, e.g. acetone, or halogenated hydrocarbons, e.g. methylenechloride. Coated tablets according to the invention are preferablyprepared by first making the cores and subsequently coating said coresusing conventional techniques, such as coating in a coating pan.

As used herein, the term “tamper-resistant” refers to tablets that areresistant to conversion into a form suitable for misuse or abuse,particular for nasal and/or intravenous administration, by conventionalmeans such as grinding in a mortar or crushing by means of a hammer. Inthis regard, the tablets as such may be crushable by conventional means.However, the particulates contained in the tablets according to theinvention exhibit mechanical properties such that they cannot bepulverized by conventional means any further. As the particulates are ofmacroscopic size and contain the pharmacologically active compound, theycannot be administered nasally thereby rendering the tabletstamper-resistant. Preferably, when trying to tamper the dosage form inorder to prepare a formulation suitable for abuse by intravenousadministration, the liquid part of the formulation that can be separatedfrom the remainder by means of a syringe is as less as possible,preferably it contains not more than 20 wt.-%, more preferably not morethan 15 wt.-%, still more preferably not more than 10 wt.-%, and mostpreferably not more than 5 wt.-% of the originally containedpharmacologically active compound. Preferably, this property is testedby (i) dispensing a tablet that is either intact or has been manuallycomminuted by means of two spoons in 5 ml of purified water, (ii)heating the liquid up to its boiling point, (iii) boiling the liquid ina covered vessel for 5 min without the addition of further purifiedwater, (iv) drawing up the hot liquid into a syringe (needle 21Gequipped with a cigarette filter), (v) determining the amount of thepharmacologically active compound contained in the liquid within thesyringe.

Further, when trying to disrupt the tablets by means of a hammer ormortar, the particulates tend to adhere to one another thereby formingaggregates and agglomerates, respectively, which are larger in size thanthe untreated particulates.

The subjects to which the tablets according to the invention can beadministered are not particularly limited. Preferably, the subjects areanimals, more preferably human beings.

In the tablets according to the invention, the particulates areincorporated into a matrix material. From a macroscopic perspective, thematrix material preferably forms a continuous phase in which theparticulates are embedded as discontinuous phase.

Preferably, the matrix material is a homogenous coherent mass,preferably a homogeneous mixture of solid constituents, in which theparticulates are embedded thereby spatially separating the particulatesfrom one another. While it is possible that the surfaces of particulatesare in contact or at least in very close proximity with one another, theplurality of particulates preferably cannot be regarded as a singlecontinuous coherent mass within the tablet.

In other words, the tablet according to the invention comprises theparticulates as volume element(s) of a first type in which thepharmacologically active compound and the polyalkylene oxide arecontained, preferably homogeneously, and the matrix material as volumeelement of a second type differing from the material that forms theparticulates, preferably containing neither pharmacologically activecompound nor polyalkylene oxide, but optionally polyethylene glycolwhich differs from polyethylene oxide in its molecular weight.

A purpose of the matrix material in the tablet according to theinvention is to ensure rapid disintegration and subsequent release ofthe pharmacologically active compound from the disintegrated tablets,i.e. from the particulates. Thus, the matrix material preferably doesnot contain any excipient that might have a retardant effect ondisintegration and drug release, respectively. Thus, the matrix materialpreferably does not contain any polymer that is typically employed asmatrix material in prolonged release formulations.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a preferred embodiment of the tabletaccording to the invention. Tablet (1) contains a plurality ofparticulates (2) that form a discontinuous phase within matrix material(3) which in turn forms a continuous phase.

The tamper-resistant tablet according to the invention comprises thematrix material in an amount of more than one third of the total weightof the tablet.

It has been surprisingly found that the content of the matrix materialin the tablet can be optimized in order to provide the best compromisebetween tamper-resistance, disintegration time and drug release, drugload, processability (especially tablettability) and patient compliance.

Preferably, the content of the matrix material is at least 35 wt.-%, atleast 37.5 wt.-% or at least 40 wt.-%; more preferably at least 42.5wt.-%, at least 45 wt.-%, at least 47.5 wt.-% or at least 50 wt.-%;still more preferably at least 52.5 wt.-%, at least 55 wt.-%, at least57.5 wt.-% or at least 60 wt.-%; yet more preferably at least 62.5wt.-%, at least 65 wt.-%, at least 67.5 wt.-% or at least 60 wt.-%; mostpreferably at least 72.5 wt.-%, at least 75 wt.-%, at least 77.5 wt.-%or at least 70 wt.-%; and in particular at least 82.5 wt.-%, at least 85wt.-%, at least 87.5 wt.-% or at least 90 wt.-%; based on the totalweight of the tablet.

Preferably, the content of the matrix material is at most 90 wt.-%, atmost 87.5 wt.-%, at most 85 wt.-%, or at most 82.5 wt.-%; morepreferably at most 80 wt.-%, at most 77.5 wt.-%, at most 75 wt.-% or atmost 72.5 wt.-%; still more preferably at most 70 wt.-%, at most 67.5wt.-%, at most 65 wt.-% or at most 62.5 wt.-%; yet more preferably atmost 60 wt.-%, at most 57.5 wt.-%, at most 55 wt.-% or at most 52.5wt.-%; most preferably at most 50 wt.-%, at most 47.5 wt.-%, at most 45wt.-% or at most 42.5 wt.-%; and in particular at most 40 wt.-%, at most37.5 wt.-%, or at most 35 wt.-%; based on the total weight of thetablet.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the matrix material is withinthe range of 40±5 wt.-%, more preferably 40±2.5 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of the tablet. In another preferred embodiment, the contentof the matrix material is within the range of 45±10 wt.-%, morepreferably 45±7.5 wt.-%, still more preferably 45±5 wt.-%, and mostpreferably 45±2.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. Instill another preferred embodiment, the content of the matrix materialis within the range of 50±10 wt.-%, more preferably 50±7.5 wt.-%, stillmore preferably 50±5 wt.-%, and most preferably 50±2.5 wt.-%, based onthe total weight of the tablet. In yet another preferred embodiment, thecontent of the matrix material is within the range of 55±10 wt.-%, morepreferably 55±7.5 wt.-%, still more preferably 55±5 wt.-%, and mostpreferably 55±2.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet.

Preferably, the matrix material is a mixture, preferably a homogeneousmixture of at least two different constituents, more preferably of atleast three different constituents. In a preferred embodiment, allconstituents of the matrix material are homogeneously distributed in thecontinuous phase that is formed by the matrix material.

In a preferred embodiment, the mixture of all constituents of the matrixmaterial is blended and employed as a powder, i.e. in non-pre-compactedform, subsequently mixed with the particulates that contain thepharmacologically active compound and the polyalkylene oxide, and thencompressed into tablets. Tablets having acceptance values between about5 and 6 according to Ph. Eur. 2.9.40 “Uniformity of Dosage Units” (UDU)can be obtained when properly adjusting the tablet press. Vibrationsshould be avoided to a maximal extent (e.g. by decoupling of hopper andtablet press) and clearance of equipment parts should be as small aspossible. For example, on a rotary tablet press IMA S250 plus with 26stations, the following parameters are suitable: round punches 10 mmdiameter, radius of curvature 8 mm without debossing; fill curve 13 mm;tablet weight 500 mg; speed: 13700-13800 tablets per hour; precompression force 4.7 kN; main compression force 6.7 kN and 8.7 kN; filldepth 14.5 mm and 15 mm; height of tablet bar (pre compression): 3.5 mm;height of tablet bar (main compression): 3.3 mm and 3.1 mm; revolutionspeed of feeder (Filomat): 40 rmp.

In another preferred embodiment, the matrix material is also provided inparticulate form, i.e. in the course of the manufacture of the tabletsaccording to the invention, the constituents of the matrix material arepreferably processed into particulates, subsequently mixed with theparticulates that contain the pharmacologically active compound and thepolyalkylene oxide, and then compressed into the tablets.

Preferably, the average size of the particulates of the matrix materialis within the range of ±60%, more preferably ±50%, still more preferably±40%, yet more preferably ±30%, most preferably ±20%, and in particular±10% of the average size of the particulates that contain thepharmacologically active compound and the polyalkylene oxide.

It has been surprisingly found that when proceeding this way,segregation phenomena upon blending the particulates can be reduced oreven completely suppressed, thereby substantially improving the contentuniformity of the tablets according to the invention.

This is particularly surprising, as the larger the particulates arewhich are to be mixed and compressed to tablets, the more difficult ittypically is to satisfy content uniformity requirements. Compared toconventional tablets, the tablets according to the invention aremanufactured from comparatively large particulates and optionally, alsofrom comparatively large pre-compacted particulates of matrix material.Preferably, the AV (acceptance value) concerning the content uniformityof the tablets according to the invention is at most 15, more preferablyat most 14, still more preferably at most 13, yet more preferably atmost 12, even more preferably at most 11, most preferably at most 10 andin particular at most 9. Methods to determine the AV are known to theskilled artisan. Preferably, the AV is determined in accordance withEur. Ph.

This preferred embodiment of the tablets according to the invention isschematically illustrated in FIG. 2. Tablet (1) contains a plurality ofparticulates (2) that form a discontinuous phase within matrix material(3) which in turn forms a continuous phase and is also provided inparticulate form, the individual particulates being in intimate contactwith one another at boundaries (4). As the particulates of the matrixmaterial typically have a mechanical strength lower than that of theparticulates (2), the particulates of the matrix material are deformedin the course of the manufacture of the tablets by compression.

The particulates of the matrix material can be manufactured byconventional methods for the preparation of aggregates and agglomeratesfrom powder mixtures such as granulating and compacting.

In a preferred embodiment, the mixture of all constituents of the matrixmaterial is blended and pre-compacted thereby yielding a pre-compactedmatrix material.

Suitable methods for the manufacture of such a pre-compacted matrixmaterial are known to the skilled person. Preferably, pre-compactionproceeds by dry granulation, preferably slugging or roller compaction.When proceeding this way, the process parameters are typically to beadjusted in order to achieve the desired properties (see below). Typicalprocess parameters are compaction force (preferably adjusted within therange of 2 to 12 kN), roller displacement (preferably adjusted withinthe range of 2 to 5 mm) and granule sieve (preferably adjusted withinthe range of 1.0 to 2.0 mm). The desired properties of the pre-compactedmaterial include primarily the particle size and the content of fineparticles. The density may also play a role. The particle size ispreferably within the range for the size of the particulates (preferablyat least 60%>700 μm for particulates having dimensions of 0.8×0.8 mm).The content of fine particles (i.e. particles having a size of less than600 μm) is preferably at most 40%, more preferably at most 30%, mostpreferably at most 20%. The effect of said process parameters on saiddesired properties can be easily determined by a skilled person byroutine experimentation.

In another preferred embodiment, the mixture of all constituents of thematrix material is dry granulated thereby yielding a granulated matrixmaterial. In still another preferred embodiment, the mixture of allconstituents of the matrix material is wet granulated by means of anon-aqueous solvent e.g. ethanol thereby yielding another granulatedmatrix material. Aqueous granulation, however, is preferably avoided, asthis typically has a detrimental influence on disintegration of thetablet. In yet another preferred embodiment, the mixture of allconstituents of the matrix material is melt granulated, e.g. by means ofan extruder, a heatable high-shear mixer or a granulator.

As already mentioned above, the matrix material in the tablet accordingto the invention should ensure rapid disintegration and subsequentrelease of the pharmacologically active compound from the disintegratedtablets, i.e. from the particulates. Thus, the matrix materialpreferably does not contain any excipient that might have a retardanteffect on disintegration and drug release, respectively. Further, thematrix material preferably does not contain any pharmacologically activecompound.

Preferably, the matrix material comprises a disintegrant. Suitabledisintegrants are known to the skilled person and are preferablyselected from the group consisting of crosslinked sodiumcarboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC) (e.g. Crosscarmellose, Ac-Di-Sol®);crosslinked casein (e.g. Esma-Spreng®); polysaccharide mixtures obtainedfrom soybeans (e.g. Emcosoy®); pretreated maize starch (e.g. Amijel®);sodium alginate; polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (e.g. Kollidone®,Polyplasdone®, Polydone®); crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP CI)(e.g. Polyplasdone® XL); starch and pretreated starch such as sodiumcarboxymethyl starch (e.g. Explotab®, Prejel®, Primotab® ET, Starch®1500, Ulmatryl®). Crosslinked polymers are particularly preferreddisintegrants, especially crosslinked sodium carboxymethylcellulose(Na-CMC) or crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP CI).

Preferably, the disintegrant is contained in the matrix material but notin the particulates of the tablet according to the invention.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the disintegrant in the matrixmaterial is within the range of 5±4 wt.-%, more preferably 5±3 wt.-%,still more preferably 5±2.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably 5±2 wt.-%, mostpreferably 5±1.5 wt.-%, and in particular 5±1 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of matrix material. In another preferred embodiment, the contentof the disintegrant in the matrix material is within the range of 7.5±4wt.-%, more preferably 7.5±3 wt.-%, still more preferably 7.5±2.5 wt.-%,yet more preferably 7.5±2 wt.-%, most preferably 7.5±1.5 wt.-%, and inparticular 7.5±1 wt.-%, based on the total weight of matrix material. Instill another preferred embodiment, the content of the disintegrant inthe matrix material is within the range of 10±4 wt.-%, more preferably10±3 wt.-%, still more preferably 10±2.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably 10±2wt.-%, most preferably 10±1.5 wt.-%, and in particular 10±1 wt.-%, basedon the total weight of matrix material. In another preferred embodiment,the content of the disintegrant in the matrix material is within therange of 12.5±4 wt.-%, more preferably 12.5±3 wt.-%, still morepreferably 12.5±2.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably 12.5±2 wt.-%, mostpreferably 12.5±1.5 wt.-%, and in particular 12.5±1 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of matrix material.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the disintegrant in the tabletis within the range of 2±1.8 wt.-%, more preferably 2±1.5 wt.-%, stillmore preferably 2±1.3 wt.-%, yet more preferably 2±1.0 wt.-%, mostpreferably 2±0.8 wt.-%, and in particular 2±0.5 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of tablet. In another preferred embodiment, the content ofthe disintegrant in the tablet is within the range of 4±1.8 wt.-%, morepreferably 4±1.5 wt.-%, still more preferably 4±1.3 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 4±1.0 wt.-%, most preferably 4±0.8 wt.-%, and in particular4±0.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of tablet. In still anotherpreferred embodiment, the content of the disintegrant in the tablet iswithin the range of 6±1.8 wt.-%, more preferably 6±1.5 wt.-%, still morepreferably 6±1.3 wt.-%, yet more preferably 6±1.0 wt.-%, most preferably6±0.8 wt.-%, and in particular 6±0.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight oftablet. In another preferred embodiment, the content of the disintegrantin the tablet is within the range of 8±1.8 wt.-%, more preferably 8±1.5wt.-%, still more preferably 8±1.3 wt.-%, yet more preferably 8±1.0wt.-%, most preferably 8±0.8 wt.-%, and in particular 8±0.5 wt.-%, basedon the total weight of tablet.

Preferably, the matrix material comprises a disintegrant in combinationwith one or more water insoluble pharmaceutical excipients, preferablyfillers/binders and/or lubricants.

Preferably, the matrix material comprises a filler or a binder. As manyfillers can be regarded as binders and vice versa, for the purpose ofthe specification “filler/binder” refers to any excipient that issuitable as filler, binder or both. Thus, the matrix material preferablycomprises a filler/binder.

Preferred fillers (=filler/binders) are selected from the groupconsisting of silicium dioxide (e.g. Aerosil®), microcrystallinecellulose (e.g. Avicel®, Elcema®, Emocel®, ExCel®, Vitacell); celluloseether (e.g. Natrosol®, Klucel®, Methocel®, Blanose®, Pharmacoat®,Viscontran); mannitol; dextrines; dextrose; calciumhydrogen phosphate(e.g. Emcompress); maltodextrine (e.g. Emdex®); lactose (e.g. Fast-FlowLactose®; Ludipress®, Tablettose®, Zeparox®); polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)(e.g. Kollidone®, Polyplasdone®, Polydone®); saccharose (e.g. Nu-Tab®,Sugar Tab®); magnesium salts (e.g. MgCO₃, MgO, MgSiO₃); starches andpretreated starches (e.g. Prejel®, Primotab® ET, Starch® 1500).Preferred binders are selected from the group consisting of alginates;chitosanes; and any of the fillers mentioned above (=fillers/binders).

Some fillers/binders may also serve other purposes. It is known, forexample, that silicium dioxide exhibits excellent function as a glidant.Thus, preferably, the matrix material comprises a glidant such assilicium dioxide.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the filler/binder or mixtureof fillers/binders in the matrix material is within the range of 50±25wt.-%, more preferably 50±20 wt.-%, still more preferably 50±15 wt.-%,yet more preferably 50±10 wt.-%, most preferably 50±7.5 wt.-%, and inparticular 50±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of matrix material. Inanother preferred embodiment, the content of the filler/binder ormixture of fillers/binders in the matrix material is within the range of65±25 wt.-%, more preferably 65±20 wt.-%, still more preferably 65±15wt.-%, yet more preferably 65±10 wt.-%, most preferably 65±7.5 wt.-%,and in particular 65±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of matrixmaterial. In still another preferred embodiment, the content of thefiller/binder or mixture of fillers/binders in the matrix material iswithin the range of 80±19 wt.-%, more preferably 80±17.5 wt.-%, stillmore preferably 80±15 wt.-%, yet more preferably 80±10 wt.-%, mostpreferably 80±7.5 wt.-%, and in particular 80±5 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of matrix material. In another preferred embodiment, thecontent of the filler/binder or mixture of fillers/binders in the matrixmaterial is within the range of 90±9 wt.-%, more preferably 90±8 wt.-%,still more preferably 90±7 wt.-%, yet more preferably 90±6 wt.-%, mostpreferably 90±5 wt.-%, and in particular 90±4 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of matrix material.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the filler/binder or mixtureof fillers/binders in the tablet is within the range of 25±24 wt.-%,more preferably 25±20 wt.-%, still more preferably 25±16 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 25±12 wt.-%, most preferably 25±8 wt.-%, and in particular25±4 wt.-%, based on the total weight of tablet. In another preferredembodiment, the content of the filler/binder or mixture offillers/binders in the tablet is within the range of 30±29 wt.-%, morepreferably 30±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 30±20 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 30±15 wt.-%, most preferably 30±10 wt.-%, and in particular30±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of tablet. In still anotherpreferred embodiment, the content of the filler/binder or mixture offillers/binders in the tablet is within the range of 35±34 wt.-%, morepreferably 35±28 wt.-%, still more preferably 35±22 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 35±16 wt.-%, most preferably 35±10 wt.-%, and in particular35±4 wt.-%, based on the total weight of tablet. In another preferredembodiment, the content of the filler/binder or mixture offillers/binders in the tablet is within the range of 40±39 wt.-%, morepreferably 40±32 wt.-%, still more preferably 40±25 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 40±18 wt.-%, most preferably 40±11 wt.-%, and in particular40±4 wt.-%, based on the total weight of tablet.

Preferably, the filler/binder is contained in the matrix material butnot in the particulates of the tablet according to the invention.

In a preferred embodiment, a portion (e.g. 10% of the total tablet mass)of the matrix is granulated on the particulates (preferably bynon-aqueous wet granulation, e.g. with isopropylic alcohol) and theremaining matrix material is added to the thus granulated particulatesand blended prior to compression/processing to tablets. Thus, accordingto this embodiment, the particulates are coated by a portion of thematrix material, whereas the remainder of the matrix material ispreferably employed in non-granulated form.

Preferably, the matrix material comprises a diluent or lubricant,preferably selected from the group consisting of calcium stearate;magnesium stearate; glycerol monobehenate (e.g. Compritol®); Myvatex®;Precirol®; Precirol® Ato5; sodium stearylfumarate (e.g. Pruv®); andtalcum. Magnesium stearate is particularly preferred. Preferably, thecontent of the lubricant in the matrix material is at most 10.0 wt.-%,more preferably at most 7.5 wt.-%, still more preferably at most 5.0wt.-%, yet more preferably at most 2.0 wt.-%, even more preferably atmost 1.0 wt.-%, and most preferably at most 0.5 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of the matrix material and based on the total weight oftablet.

In particularly preferred embodiment, the matrix material comprises acombination of disintegrant, filler/binder and lubricant.

Particularly preferred contents of disintegrant, filler/binder andlubricant of the matrix material, relative to the total weight of thematrix material, are summarized as embodiments A¹ to A⁶ in the tablehere below:

wt.-% A¹ A² A³ A⁴ A⁵ A⁶ disintegrant 11 ± 10  11 ± 7.5  11 ± 5.0  11 ±3.5  11 ± 2.5 11 ± 1.5 filler/binder 88 ± 12 88 ± 10 88 ± 8  88 ± 6  88± 4  88 ± 2.5 lubricant 0.30 ± 0.28 0.30 ± 0.26 0.30 ± 0.24 0.30 ± 0.220.30 ± 0.20 0.30 ± 0.15 

wherein the disintegrant is preferably crosslinked sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC) or crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP CI); thefiller binder is preferably microcrystalline cellulose or a combinationof microcrystalline cellulose with colloidal silicon dioxide; and thelubricant is preferably magnesium stearate.

The matrix material of the tablets according to the invention mayadditionally contain other excipients that are conventional in the art,e.g. diluents, binders, granulating aids, colourants, flavourants, poreformers, surfactants, glidants, wet-regulating agents and disintegrants.The skilled person will readily be able to determine appropriatequantities of each of these excipients.

Preferred pore formers include, but are not limited to glucose,fructose, mannitol, mannose, galactose, sorbitol, pullulan, dextran,water-soluble hydrophilic polymers, hydroxyalkyl-celluloses,carboxyalkylcelluloses, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, cellulose ethers,acrylic resins, polyvinylpyrrolidone, cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone,polyethylene oxide, carbowaxes, carbopol, diols, polyols, polyhydricalcohols, polyalkylene glycols, polyethylene glycols, polypropyleneglycols or block polymers thereof, polyglycols, poly(α-ω)alkylenediols;inorganic compounds; alkali metal salts; alkaline earth metal salts, orcombinations thereof.

Preferred surfactants are nonionic, anionic, cationic or amphotericsurfactants.

In a preferred embodiment, the matrix material contains an ionicsurfactant, in particular an anionic surfactant.

Suitable anionic surfactants include but are not limited to sulfuricacid esters such as sodium lauryl sulfate (sodium dodecyl sulfate, e.g.Texapon® K12), sodium cetyl sulfate (e.g. Lanette E®), sodiumcetylstearyl sulfate, sodium stearyl sulfate, sodiumdioctylsulfosuccinate (docusate sodium); and the corresponding potassiumor calcium salts thereof.

Preferably, the anionic surfactant has the general formula (II-a)

C_(n)H_(2n+1)O—SO₃ ⁻M⁺  (II-a),

-   -   wherein n is an integer of from 8 to 30, preferably 10 to 24,        more preferably 12 to 18; and M is selected from Li⁺, Na⁺, K⁺,        NH₄ ⁺½Mg²⁺ and ½Ca²⁺.

Further suitable anionic surfactants include salts of cholic acidincluding sodium glycocholate (e.g. Konakion® MM, Cernevit®), sodiumtaurocholate and the corresponding potassium or ammonium salts.

In another preferred embodiment, the matrix material contains anon-ionic surfactant. Suitable non-ionic surfactants include but are notlimited to

-   -   fatty alcohols that may be linear or branched, such as        cetylalcohol, stearylalcohol, cetylstearyl alcohol,        2-octyldodecane-1-ol and 2-hexyldecane-1-ol;    -   sterols, such as cholesterole;    -   partial fatty acid esters of sorbitan such as        sorbitanmonolaurate, sorbitanmonopalmitate,        sorbitanmonostearate, sorbitantristearate, sorbitanmonooleate,        sorbitansesquioleate and sorbitantrioleate;    -   partial fatty acid esters of polyoxyethylene sorbitan        (polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-fatty acid esters), preferably a fatty        acid monoester of polyoxyethylene sorbitan, a fatty acid diester        of polyoxyethylene sorbitan, or a fatty acid triester of        polyoxyethylene sorbitan; e.g. mono- and tri-lauryl, palmityl,        stearyl and oleyl esters, such as the type known under the name        “polysorbat” and commercially available under the trade name        “Tween” including Tween® 20 [polyoxyethylene(20)sorbitan        monolaurate], Tween® 21 [polyoxyethylene(4)sorbitan        monolaurate], Tween® 40 [polyoxyethylene(20)sorbitan        monopalmitate], Tween® 60 [polyoxyethylene(20)sorbitan        monostearate], Tween® 65 [polyoxyethylene(20)sorbitan        tristearate], Tween® 80 [polyoxyethylene(20)sorbitan        monooleate], Tween 81 [polyoxyethylene(5)sorbitan monooleate],        and Tween® 85 [polyoxyethylene(20)sorbitan trioleate];        preferably a fatty acid monoester of polyoxyethylenesorbitan        according to general formula (II-b)

-   -   -   wherein (w+x+y+z) is within the range of from 15 to 100,            preferably 16 to 80, more preferably 17 to 60, still more            preferably 18 to 40 and most preferably 19 to 21; and            alkylene is an optionally unsaturated alkylene group            comprising 6 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably 8 to 24            carbon atoms and most preferably 10 to 16 carbon atoms;

    -   polyoxyethyleneglycerole fatty acid esters such as mixtures of        mono-, di- and triesters of glycerol and di- and monoesters of        macrogols having molecular weights within the range of from 200        to 4000 g/mol, e.g., macrogolglycerolcaprylocaprate,        macrogolglycerollaurate, macrogolglycerolococoate,        macrogolglycerollinoleate, macrogol-20-glycerolmonostearate,        macrogol-6-glycerolcaprylocaprate, macrogolglycerololeate;        macrogolglycerolstearate, macrogolglycerolhydroxystearate (e.g.        Cremophor® RH 40), and macrogolglycerol-rizinoleate (e.g.        Cremophor® EL);

    -   polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, the fatty acid preferably        having from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms, e.g.        macrogololeate, macrogolstearate, macrogol-15-hydroxystearate,        polyoxyethylene esters of 12-hydroxystearic acid, such as the        type known and commercially available under the trade name        “Solutol HS 15”; preferably according to general formula (II-c)

CH₃CH₂—(OCH₂CH₃)_(n)—O—CO—(CH₂)_(m)CH₃  (II-c)

-   -   -   wherein n is an integer of from 6 to 500, preferably 7 to            250, more preferably 8 to 100, still more preferably 9 to            75, yet more preferably 10 to 50, even more preferably 11 to            30, most preferably 12 to 25, and in particular 13 to 20;            and        -   wherein m is an integer of from 6 to 28; more preferably 6            to 26, still more preferably 8 to 24, yet more preferably 10            to 22, even more preferably 12 to 20, most preferably 14 to            18 and in particular 16;

    -   polyoxyethylene fatty alcohol ethers, e.g.        macrogolcetylstearylether, macrogollarylether,        macrogololeylether, macrogolstearylether;

    -   polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene block copolymers (poloxamers);

    -   fatty acid esters of saccharose; e.g. saccharose distearate,        saccharose dioleate, saccharose dipalmitate, saccharose        monostearate, saccharose monooleate, saccharose monopalmitate,        saccharose monomyristate and saccharose monolaurate;

    -   fatty acid esters of polyglycerol, e.g. polyglycerololeate;

    -   polyoxyethylene esters of alpha-tocopheryl succinate, e.g.        D-alpha-tocopheryl-PEG-1000-succinate (TPGS);

    -   polyglycolyzed glycerides, such as the types known and        commercially available under the trade names “Gelucire 44/14”,        “Gelucire 50/13 and “Labrasol”;

    -   reaction products of a natural or hydrogenated castor oil and        ethylene oxide such as the various liquid surfactants known and        commercially available under the trade name “Cremophor”; and

    -   partial fatty acid esters of multifunctional alcohols, such as        glycerol fatty acid esters, e.g. mono- and tri-lauryl, palmityl,        stearyl and oleyl esters, for example glycerol monostearate,        glycerol monooleate, e.g. glyceryl monooleate 40, known and        commercially available under the trade name “Peceol”; glycerole        dibehenate, glycerole distearate, glycerole monolinoleate;        ethyleneglycol monostearate, ethyleneglycol monopalmitostearate,        pentaerythritol monostearate.

In a preferred embodiment, the matrix material according to theinvention comprises a surfactant or mixture of different surfactantsobtainable by

-   -   (i) esterifying saturated or unsaturated C₁₂-C₁₈-fatty acids,        optionally bearing a hydroxyl group, with a polyethylene glycol        and optionally, glycerol; wherein the polyethylene glycol        preferably comprises 10 to 40 ethylene oxide units (—CH₂CH₂O—);        and/or    -   (ii) etherifying triglycerides of saturated or unsaturated        C₁₂-C₁₈-fatty acids bearing a hydroxyl group with ethylene oxide        so that a polyethylene glycol moiety is linked to the hydroxyl        group of the C₁₂-C₁₈-fatty acids via an ether bond; wherein the        polyethylene glycol moiety preferably comprises 30 to 50        ethylene oxide units (—CH₂CH₂O—).

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the surfactant is at least0.001 wt.-% or at least 0.005 wt.-%, more preferably at least 0.01 wt.-%or at least 0.05 wt.-%, still more preferably at least 0.1 wt.-%, atleast 0.2 wt.-%, or at least 0.3 wt.-%, yet more preferably at least 0.4wt.-%, at least 0.5 wt.-%, or at least 0.6 wt.-%, and in particular atleast 0.7 wt.-%, at least 0.8 wt.-%, at least 0.9 wt.-%, or at least 1.0wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet.

In a preferred embodiment, however, the matrix material of the tabletaccording to the invention consists of one or more disintegrants, one ormore filler/binder's and one or more lubricants, but does not containany other constituents.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the matrix material of thetablet according to the invention does not contain one or moregel-forming agents and/or a silicone.

As used herein the term “gel-forming agent” is used to refer to acompound that, upon contact with a solvent (e.g. water), absorbs thesolvent and swells, thereby forming a viscous or semi-viscous substance.Preferred gel-forming agents are not cross-linked. This substance maymoderate pharmacologically active compound release from the embeddedparticulates in both aqueous and aqueous alcoholic media. Upon fullhydration, a thick viscous solution or dispersion is typically producedthat significantly reduces and/or minimizes the amount of free solventwhich can contain an amount of solubilized pharmacologically activecompound, and which can be drawn into a syringe. The gel that is formedmay also reduce the overall amount of pharmacologically active compoundextractable with the solvent by entrapping the pharmacologically activecompound within a gel structure. Thus the gel-forming agent may play animportant role in conferring tamper-resistance to the tablets accordingto the invention.

Gel-forming agents that preferably are not contained in the matrixmaterial include pharmaceutically acceptable polymers, typicallyhydrophilic polymers, such as hydrogels. Representative examples ofgel-forming agent include polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol,hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, carbomers, poly(uronic) acids andmixtures thereof.

Thus, the polyalkylene oxide that is contained in the particulates ofthe tablets according to the invention is preferably not also containedin the matrix material.

Preferably, the pharmacologically active compound which is contained inthe particulates of the tablet according to the invention is preferablynot also contained in the matrix material.

Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the total amount of pharmacologicallyactive compound contained in the tablet according to the invention ispresent in the particulates which form a discontinuous phase within thematrix material; and the matrix material forming a continuous phase doesnot contain any pharmacologically active compound.

The tablet according to the invention contains a plurality ofparticulates. The particulates comprise a pharmacologically activecompound and a polyalkylene oxide. Preferably, the pharmacologicallyactive compound is dispersed in the polyalkylene oxide.

For the purpose of the specification, the term “particulate” refers to adiscrete mass of material that is solid, e.g. at 20° C. or at roomtemperature or ambient temperature. Preferably a particulate is solid at20° C. Preferably, the particulates are monoliths. Preferably, thepharmacologically active compound and the polyalkylene oxide areintimately homogeneously distributed in the particulates so that theparticulates do not contain any segments where either pharmacologicallyactive compound is present in the absence of polyalkylene oxide or wherepolyalkylene oxide is present in the absence of pharmacologically activecompound.

When the particulates are film coated, the polyalkylene oxide ispreferably homogeneously distributed in the core of the pharmaceuticaldosage form (tablet), i.e. the film coating preferably does not containpolyalkylene oxide, but optionally polyalkylene glycol that differs frompolyalkylene oxide in its lower molecular weight. Nonetheless, the filmcoating as such may of course contain one or more polymers, whichhowever, preferably differ from the polyalkylene oxide contained in thecore.

The particulates are of macroscopic size, typically the average diameteris within the range of from 100 μm to 1500 μm, preferably 200 μm to 1500μm, more preferably 300 μm to 1500 μm, still more preferably 400 μm to1500 μm, most preferably 500 μm to 1500 μm, and in particular 600 μm to1500 μm. The tablets according to the invention comprise particulates asa discontinuous phase, i.e. the particulates form a discontinuous phasein the matrix material which in turn preferably forms a continuousphase. In this regard, discontinuous means that not each and everyparticulate is in intimate contact with another particulate but that theparticulates are at least partially separated from one another by thematrix material in which the particulates are embedded. In other words,the particulates preferably do not form a single coherent mass withinthe tablets according to the invention.

The tablet according to the invention comprises particulates in anamount of less than two thirds of the total weight of the tablet.

It has been surprisingly found that the content of particulates in thetablet can be optimized in order to provide the best compromise betweentamper-resistance, disintegration time and drug release, drug load,processability (especially tablettability) and patient compliance.

Preferably, the content of the particulates in the tablets according tothe invention is at most 65 wt.-%, more preferably at most 62.5 wt.-%,still more preferably at most 60 wt.-%, yet more preferably at most 57.5wt.-%, most preferably at most 55 wt.-% and in particular at most 52.5wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablets.

Preferably, the content of the particulates in the tablets according tothe invention is at least 10 wt.-%, at least 12.5 wt.-%, at least 15wt.-% or at least 17.5 wt.-%; more preferably at least 20 wt.-%, atleast 22.5 wt.-%, at least 25 wt.-% or at least 27.5 wt.-%; mostpreferably at least 30 wt.-%, at least 32.5 wt.-%, at least 35 wt.-% orat least 37.5 wt.-%; and in particular at least 40 wt.-%, at least 42.5wt.-%, at least 45 wt.-% or at least 47.5 wt.-%; based on the totalweight of the tablet.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the particulates in thetablets according to the invention is within the range of 35±30 wt.-%,more preferably 35±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 35±20 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 35±15 wt.-%, most preferably 35±10 wt.-%, and in particular35±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the content of the particulates in the tabletsaccording to the invention is within the range of 40±30 wt.-%, morepreferably 40±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 40±20 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 40±15 wt.-%, most preferably 40±10 wt.-%, and in particular40±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. In still anotherpreferred embodiment, the content of the particulates in the tabletsaccording to the invention is within the range of 45±30 wt.-%, morepreferably 45±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 45±20 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 45±15 wt.-%, most preferably 45±10 wt.-%, and in particular45±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. In yet anotherpreferred embodiment, the content of the particulates in the tabletsaccording to the invention is within the range of 50±30 wt.-%, morepreferably 50±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 50±20 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 50±15 wt.-%, most preferably 50±10 wt.-%, and in particular50±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the content of the particulates in the tabletsaccording to the invention is within the range of 55±30 wt.-%, morepreferably 55±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 55±20 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 55±15 wt.-%, most preferably 55±10 wt.-%, and in particular55±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. In still anotherpreferred embodiment, the content of the particulates in the tabletsaccording to the invention is within the range of 60±30 wt.-%, morepreferably 60±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 60±20 wt.-%, yet morepreferably 60±15 wt.-%, most preferably 60±10 wt.-%, and in particular60±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet.

The shape of the particulates is not particularly limited. As theparticulates are preferably manufactured by hot-melt extrusion,preferred particulates present in the tablets according to the inventionare generally cylindrical in shape. The diameter of such particulates istherefore the diameter of their circular cross section. The cylindricalshape is caused by the extrusion process according to which the diameterof the circular cross section is a function of the extrusion die and thelength of the cylinders is a function of the cutting length according towhich the extruded strand of material is cut into pieces of preferablymore or less predetermined length.

The suitability of cylindrical, i.e. a spherical particulates for themanufacture of the tablets according to the invention is unexpected.Typically, the aspect ratio is regarded as an important measure of thespherical shape. The aspect ratio is defined as the ratio of the maximaldiameter (d_(max)) and its orthogonal Feret-diameter. For asphericalparticulates, the aspect ratio has values above 1. The smaller the valuethe more spherical is the particulate. Aspect ratios below 1.1 aretypically considered satisfactory, aspect ratios above 1.2, however, aretypically considered not suitable for the manufacture of conventionaltablets. The inventors have surprisingly found that when manufacturingthe tablets according to the invention, even particulates having aspectratios above 1.2 can be processed without difficulties and that it isnot necessary to provide spherical particulates. In a preferredembodiment, the aspect ratio of the particulates is at most 1.40, morepreferably at most 1.35, still more preferably at most 1.30, yet morepreferably at most 1.25, even more preferably at most 1.20, mostpreferably at most 1.15 and in particular at most 1.10. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the aspect ratio of the particulates is at least1.10, more preferably at least 1.15, still more preferably at least1.20, yet more preferably at least 1.25, even more preferably at least1.30, most preferably at least 1.35 and in particular at least 1.40.

The particulates in the tablets according to the invention are ofmacroscopic size, i.e. typically have an average particle size of atleast 50 μm, more preferably at least 100 μm, still more preferably atleast 150 μm or at least 200 μm, yet more preferably at least 250 μm orat least 300 μm, most preferably at least 400 μm or at least 500 μm, andin particular at least 550 μm or at least 600 μm.

Preferred particulates have an average length and average diameter ofabout 1000 μm or less. When the particulates are manufactured byextrusion technology, the “length” of particulates is the dimension ofthe particulates that is parallel to the direction of extrusion. The“diameter” of particulates is the largest dimension that isperpendicular to the direction of extrusion.

Particularly preferred particulates have an average diameter of lessthan about 1000 μm, more preferably less than about 800 μm, still morepreferably of less than about 650 μm. Especially preferred particulateshave an average diameter of less than 700 μm, particularly less than 600μm, still more particularly less than 500 μm, e.g. less than 400 μm.Particularly preferred particulates have an average diameter in therange 200-1000 μm, more preferably 400-800 μm, still more preferably450-700 μm, yet more preferably 500-650 μm, e.g. about 500-600 μm.Further preferred particulates have an average diameter of between about300 μm and about 400 μm, of between about 400 μm and 500 μm, or ofbetween about 500 μm and 600 μm, or of between 600 μm and 700 μm or ofbetween 700 μm and 800 μm.

Preferred particulates that are present in the tablets according to theinvention have an average length of less than about 1000 μm, preferablyan average length of less than about 800 μm, still more preferably anaverage length of less than about 650 μm, e.g. a length of about 800 μm,about 700 μm about 600 μm, about 500 μm, about 400 μm or about 300 μm.Especially preferred particulates have an average length of less than700 μm, particularly less than 650 μm, still more particularly less than550 μm, e.g. less than 450 μm. Particularly preferred particulatestherefore have an average length in the range 200-1000 μm, morepreferably 400-800 μm, still more preferably 450-700 μm, yet morepreferably 500-650 μm, e.g. about 500-600 μm. The minimum average lengthof the microparticulates is determined by the cutting step and may be,e.g. 500 μm, 400 μm, 300 μm or 200 μm.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates have (i) an average diameterof about 750±300 μm, more preferably 750±250 μm, still more preferably750±200 μm, yet more preferably 750±150 μm, most preferably 750±100 μm,and in particular 750±50 μm; and/or (ii) an average length of about750±300 μm, more preferably 750±250 μm, still more preferably 750±200μm, yet more preferably 750±150 μm, most preferably 750±100 μm, and inparticular 750±50 μm.

It has been surprisingly found that the size of the particulates in thetablet can be optimized in order to provide the best compromise betweentamper-resistance, disintegration time and drug release, drug load,processability (especially tablettability) and patient compliance.

The size of particulates may be determined by any conventional procedureknown in the art, e.g. laser light scattering, sieve analysis, lightmicroscopy or image analysis.

Preferably, the plurality of particulates that is contained in thetablet according to the invention has an arithmetic average weight, inthe following referred to as “aaw”, wherein at least 70%, morepreferably at least 75%, still more preferably at least 80%, yet morepreferably at least 85%, most preferably at least 90% and in particularat least 95% of the individual particles contained in said plurality ofparticulates has an individual weight within the range of aaw±30%, morepreferably aaw±25%, still more preferably aaw±20%, yet more preferablyaaw±15%, most preferably aaw±10%, and in particular aaw±5%. For example,if the tablet according to the invention contains a plurality of 100particulates and aaw of said plurality of particulates is 1.00 mg, atleast 75 individual particles (i.e. 75%) have an individual weightwithin the range of from 0.70 to 1.30 mg (1.00 mg±30%).

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates are not film coated.

In another preferred embodiment, the particulates are film coated. Ithas been surprisingly found that when the particulates are film coated,the disintegration time and/or the drug release from the tablets can befurther accelerated, which is particularly significant for tablets withimmediate drug release.

The particulates according to the invention can optionally be provided,partially or completely, with a conventional coating. The particulatesaccording to the invention are preferably film coated with conventionalfilm coating compositions. Suitable coating materials are commerciallyavailable, e.g. under the trademarks Opadry® and Eudragit®.

Examples of suitable materials include cellulose esters and celluloseethers, such as methyl-cellulose (MC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose(HPMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC),sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC), ethylcellulose (EC), celluloseacetate phthalate (CAP), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP);poly(meth)acrylates, such as aminoalkylmethacrylate copolymers,ethylacrylate methyl-methacrylate copolymers, methacrylic acidmethylmethacrylate copolymers, methacrylic acid methylmethacrylatecopolymers; vinyl polymers, such as polyvinylpyrrolidone,polyvinyl-acetatephthalate, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylalcohol-polyethylene glycol graft copolymers, polyvinylacetate; andnatural film formers.

The coating material may contain excipients such as stabilizers (e.g.surfactants such as macrogol cetostearylether, sodium dodecylsulfate,and the like). Suitable excipients of film coating materials are knownto the skilled person.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the coating is water-soluble. Ina preferred embodiment, the coating is based on polyvinyl alcohol, suchas polyvinyl alcohol-part. hydrolyzed, and may additionally containpolyethylene glycol, such as macrogol 3350, and/or pigments. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the coating is based onhydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose, preferably hypromellose type 2910 havinga viscosity of 3 to 15 mPas.

Though less preferred, the coating can principally be resistant togastric juices and dissolve as a function of the pH value of the releaseenvironment. By means of this coating, it is possible to ensure that thetablet according to the invention passes through the stomach undissolvedand the active compound is only released in the intestines. The coatingwhich is resistant to gastric juices preferably dissolves at a pH valueof between 5 and 7.5. Corresponding materials and methods for thedelayed release of active compounds and for the application of coatingswhich are resistant to gastric juices are known to the person skilled inthe art, for example from “Coated Pharmaceutical dosageforms—Fundamentals, Manufacturing Techniques, Biopharmaceutical Aspects,Test Methods and Raw Materials” by Kurt H. Bauer, K. Lehmann, Hermann P.Osterwald, Rothgang, Gerhart, 1st edition, 1998, Medpharm ScientificPublishers.

A particularly preferred coating contains polyvinyl alcohol andoptionally, further excipients such as xanthan gum and/or talkum.

When the particulates are film coated, the content of the dried filmcoating is preferably at most 5 wt.-%, more preferably at most 4 wt.-%,still more preferably at most 3.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably at most 3wt.-%, most preferably at most 2.5 wt.-%, and in particular at most 2wt.-%, based on the total weight of the particulates. In a particularlypreferred embodiment, the weight increase relative to the total weightof the particulates (uncoated starting material) is within the range offrom 3.0 to 4.7 wt.-%, more preferably 3.1 to 4.6 wt.-%, still morepreferably 3.2 to 4.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably 3.3 to 4.4 wt.-%, mostpreferably 3.4 to 4.3 wt.-%, and in particular 3.5 to 4.2 wt.-%.

It has been surprisingly found that the relative weight ratio of matrixmaterial:particulates in the tablet can be optimized in order to providethe best compromise between tamper-resistance, disintegration time anddrug release, drug load, processability (especially tablettability) andpatient compliance.

Preferably, said relative weight ratio is within the range of1:1.00±0.75, more preferably 1:1.00±0.50, still more preferably1:1.00±0.40, yet more preferably 1:1.00±0.30, most preferably1:1.00±0.20, and in particular 1:1.00±0.10.

The particulates contain at least a pharmacologically active compoundand a polyalkylene oxide. Preferably, however, the particulates containadditional pharmaceutical excipients such as antioxidants andplasticizers.

The pharmacologically active compound is not particularly limited.Preferably, the pharmacologically active compound is an opioid.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates and the tablet,respectively, contain only a single pharmacologically active compound.In another preferred embodiment, the particulates and the tablet,respectively, contain a combination of two or more pharmacologicallyactive compounds.

Preferably, pharmacologically active compound is an active ingredientwith potential for being abused. Active ingredients with potential forbeing abused are known to the person skilled in the art and comprisee.g. tranquillizers, stimulants, barbiturates, narcotics, opioids oropioid derivatives.

Preferably, the pharmacologically active compound exhibits psychotropicaction.

Preferably, the pharmacologically active compound is selected from thegroup consisting of opiates, opioids, stimulants, tranquilizers, andother narcotics.

Particularly preferably, the pharmacologically active compound is anopioid. According to the ATC index, opioids are divided into naturalopium alkaloids, phenylpiperidine derivatives, diphenylpropylaminederivatives, benzomorphan derivatives, oripavine derivatives, morphinanderivatives and others.

The following opiates, opioids, tranquillizers or other narcotics aresubstances with a psychotropic action, i.e. have a potential of abuse,and hence are preferably contained in the tablet and the particulates,respectively: alfentanil, allobarbital, allylprodine, alphaprodine,alprazolam, amfepramone, amphetamine, amphetaminil, amobarbital,anileridine, apocodeine, axomadol, barbital, bemidone, benzylmorphine,bezitramide, bromazepam, brotizolam, buprenorphine, butobarbital,butorphanol, camazepam, carfentanil, cathine/D-norpseudoephedrine,chlordiazepoxide, clobazam clofedanol, clonazepam, clonitazene,clorazepate, clotiazepam, cloxazolam, cocaine, codeine, cyclobarbital,cyclorphan, cyprenorphine, delorazepam, desomorphine, dextromoramide,dextropropoxyphene, dezocine, diampromide, diamorphone, diazepam,dihydrocodeine, dihydromorphine, dihydro-morphone, dimenoxadol,dimephetamol, dimethylthiambutene, dioxaphetylbutyrate, dipipa-none,dronabinol, eptazocine, estazolam, ethoheptazine,ethylmethylthiambutene, ethyl loflazepate, ethylmorphine, etonitazene,etorphine, faxeladol, fencamfamine, fenethylline, fenpipramide,fenproporex, fentanyl, fludiazepam, flunitrazepam, flurazepam,halazepam, haloxazolam, heroin, hydrocodone, hydromorphone,hydroxypethidine, isomethadone, hydroxymethylmorphinan, ketazolam,ketobemidone, levacetylmethadol (LAAM), levo-methadone, levorphanol,levophenacylmorphane, levoxemacin, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate,lofentanil, loprazolam, lorazepam, lormetazepam, mazindol, medazepam,mefenorex, meperidine, meprobamate, metapon, meptazinol, metazocine,methylmorphine, metamphetamine, methadone, methaqualone,3-methylfentanyl, 4-methylfentanyl, methylphenidate,methylphenobarbital, methyprylon, metopon, midazolam, modafinil,morphine, myrophine, nabilone, nalbuphene, nalorphine, narceine,nicomorphine, nimetazepam, nitrazepam, nordazepam, norlevorphanol,normethadone, normorphine, norpipanone, opium, oxazepam, oxazolam,oxycodone, oxymorphone, Papaver somniferum, papavereturn, pernoline,pentazocine, pentobarbital, pethidine, phenadoxone, phenomorphane,phenazocine, phenoperidine, piminodine, pholcodeine, phenmetrazine,phenobarbital, phentermine, pinazepam, pipradrol, piritramide, prazepam,profadol, proheptazine, promedol, properidine, propoxyphene,remifentanil, secbutabarbital, secobarbital, sufentanil, tapentadol,temazepam, tetrazepam, tilidine (cis and trans), tramadol, triazolam,vinylbital, N-(1-methyl-2-piperidinoethyl)-N-(2-pyridyl)propionamide,(1R,2R)-3-(3-dimethylamino-1-ethyl-2-methyl-propyl)phenol,(1R,2R,4S)-2-(dimethylamino)-methyl-4-(p-fluorobenzyloxy)-1-(m-methoxyphenyl)cyclohexanol,(1R,2R)-3-(2-dimethyl-aminomethyl-cyclohexyl)phenol,(1S,2S)-3-(3-dimethylamino-1-ethyl-2-methyl-propyl)phenol,(2R,3R)-1-dimethylamino-3(3-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyl-pentan-3-ol,(1RS,3RS,6RS)-6-di-methylaminomethyl-1-(3-methoxyphenyl)-cyclohexane-1,3-diol,preferably as racemate,3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)phenyl2-(4-isobutyl-phenyl)propionate,3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)phenyl2-(6-methoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)propionate,3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-cyclohex-1-enyl)-phenyl2-(4-isobutyl-phenyl)propionate,3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-cyclohex-1-enyl)-phenyl2-(6-methoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)propionate,(RR—SS)-2-acetoxy-4-trifluoromethyl-benzoic acid3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)-phenyl ester,(RR—SS)-2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethyl-benzoic acid3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)-phenyl ester,(RR—SS)-4-chloro-2-hydroxy-benzoic acid3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)-phenyl ester,(RR—SS)-2-hydroxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)-phenyl ester,(RR—SS)-2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzoic acid3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)-phenyl ester,(RR—SS)-2-hydroxy-5-nitro-benzoic acid3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)-phenyl ester,(RR—SS)-2′,4′-difluoro-3-hydroxy-biphenyl-4-carboxylic acid3-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl)-phenyl ester, andcorresponding stereoisomeric compounds, in each case the correspondingderivatives thereof, physiologically acceptable enantiomers,stereoisomers, diastereomers and racemates and the physiologicallyacceptable derivatives thereof, e.g. ethers, esters or amides, and ineach case the physiologically acceptable compounds thereof, inparticular the acid or base addition salts thereof and solvates, e.g.hydrochlorides.

In a preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compound isselected from the group consisting of DPI-125, M6G (CE-04-410),ADL-5859, CR-665, NRP290 and sebacoyl dinalbuphine ester.

In a preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compound isselected from the group consisting of oxymorphone, hydromorphone andmorphine.

In another preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compoundis selected from the group consisting of tapentadol, faxeladol andaxomadol.

In still another preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically activecompound is selected from the group consisting of1,1-(3-dimethylamino-3-phenylpentamethylene)-6-fluoro-1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indole,particularly its hemicitrate;1,1-[3-dimethylamino-3-(2-thienyl)-pentamethylene]-1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indole,particularly its citrate; and1,1-[3-dimethylamino-3-(2-thienyl)pentamethylene]-1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]-6-fluoroindole,particularly its hemicitrate. These compounds are known from, e.g., WO2004/043967, WO 2005/066183.

The pharmacologically active compound may be present in form of aphysiologically acceptable salt, e.g. physiologically acceptable acidaddition salt.

Physiologically acceptable acid addition salts comprise the acidaddition salt forms which can conveniently be obtained by treating thebase form of the active ingredient with appropriate organic andinorganic acids. Active ingredients containing an acidic proton may beconverted into their non-toxic metal or amine addition salt forms bytreatment with appropriate organic and inorganic bases. The termaddition salt also comprises the hydrates and solvent addition formswhich the active ingredients are able to form. Examples of such formsare e.g. hydrates, alcoholates and the like.

It has been surprisingly found that the content of the pharmacologicallyactive compound in the tablet and in the particulates, respectively, canbe optimized in order to provide the best compromise betweentamper-resistance, disintegration time and drug release, drug load,processability (especially tablettability) and patient compliance.

The pharmacologically active compound is present in the tablet in atherapeutically effective amount. The amount that constitutes atherapeutically effective amount varies according to the activeingredients being used, the condition being treated, the severity ofsaid condition, the patient being treated, and the frequency ofadministration.

The content of the pharmacologically active compound in the tablet isnot limited. The dose of the pharmacologically active compound which isadapted for administration preferably is in the range of 0.1 mg to 500mg, more preferably in the range of 1.0 mg to 400 mg, even morepreferably in the range of 5.0 mg to 300 mg, and most preferably in therange of 10 mg to 250 mg. In a preferred embodiment, the total amount ofthe pharmacologically active compound that is contained in the tablet iswithin the range of from 0.01 to 200 mg, more preferably 0.1 to 190 mg,still more preferably 1.0 to 180 mg, yet more preferably 1.5 to 160 mg,most preferably 2.0 to 100 mg and in particular 2.5 to 80 mg.

Preferably, the content of the pharmacologically active compound iswithin the range of from 0.01 to 80 wt.-%, more preferably 0.1 to 50wt.-%, still more preferably 1 to 25 wt.-%, based on the total weight ofthe tablet.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of pharmacologically activecompound is within the range of from 5.0±4.5 wt.-%, or 7.5±7.0 wt.-%, or10±9.0 wt.-%, or 12.5±12.0 wt.-%, or 15±14 wt.-%, or 17.5±17.0 wt.-%, or20±19 wt.-%, or 22.5±22.0 wt.-%, or 25±24 wt.-%; more preferably 5.0±4.0wt.-%, or 7.5±6.0 wt.-%, or 10±8.0 wt.-%, or 12.5±12.0 wt.-%, or 15±12wt.-%, or 17.5±15.0 wt.-%, or 20±19 wt.-%, or 22.5±22.0 wt.-%, or 25±24wt.-%; still more preferably 5.0±3.5 wt.-%, or 7.5±5.0 wt.-%, or 10±7.0wt.-%, or 12.5±10.0 wt.-%, or 15±10 wt.-%, or 17.5±13.0 wt.-%, or 20±17wt.-%, or 22.5±19.0 wt.-%, or 25±21 wt.-%; yet more preferably 5.0±3.0wt.-%, or 7.5±4.0 wt.-%, or 10±6.0 wt.-%, or 12.5±8.0 wt.-%, or 15±8.0wt.-%, or 17.5±11.0 wt.-%, or 20±15 wt.-%, or 22.5±16.0 wt.-%, or 25±18wt.-%; even more preferably 5.0±2.5 wt.-%, or 7.5±3.0 wt.-%, or 10±5.0wt.-%, or 12.5±6.0 wt.-%, or 15±6.0 wt.-%, or 17.5±9.0 wt.-%, or 20±13wt.-%, or 22.5±13.0 wt.-%, or 25±15 wt.-%; most preferably 5.0±2.0wt.-%, or 7.5±2.0 wt.-%, or 10±4.0 wt.-%, or 12.5±4.0 wt.-%, or 15±4.0wt.-%, or 17.5±7.0 wt.-%, or 20±11 wt.-%, or 22.5±10.0 wt.-%, or 25±12wt.-%; and in particular 5.0±1.5 wt.-%, or 7.5±1.0 wt.-%, or 10±3.0wt.-%, or 12.5±2.0 wt.-%, or 15±2.0 wt.-%, or 17.5±5.0 wt.-%, or 20±9wt.-%, or 22.5±7.0 wt.-%, or 25±9 wt.-%; in each case based on the totalweight of the tablet.

In a further preferred embodiment, the content of pharmacologicallyactive compound is within the range of from 20±6 wt.-%, more preferably20±5 wt.-%, still more preferably 20±4 wt.-%, most preferably 20±3wt.-%, and in particular 20±2 wt.-%, based on the total weight of thetablet. In another preferred embodiment, the content ofpharmacologically active compound is within the range of from 25±6wt.-%, more preferably 25±5 wt.-%, still more preferably 25±4 wt.-%,most preferably 25±3 wt.-%, and in particular 25±2 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of the tablet.

The skilled person may readily determine an appropriate amount ofpharmacologically active compound to include in a tablet. For instance,in the case of analgesics, the total amount of pharmacologically activecompound present in the tablet is that sufficient to provide analgesia.The total amount of pharmacologically active compound administered to apatient in a dose will vary depending on numerous factors including thenature of the pharmacologically active compound, the weight of thepatient, the severity of the pain, the nature of other therapeuticagents being administered etc.

In a preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compound iscontained in the tablet in an amount of 7.5±5 mg, 10±5 mg, 20±5 mg, 30±5mg, 40±5 mg, 50±5 mg, 60±5 mg, 70±5 mg, 80±5 mg, 90±5 mg, 100±5 mg,110±5 mg, 120±5 mg, 130±5, 140±5 mg, 150±5 mg, 160±5 mg, 170±5 mg, 180±5mg, 190±5 mg, 200±5 mg, 210±5 mg, 220±5 mg, 230±5 mg, 240±5 mg, 250±5mg, 260±5 mg, 270±5 mg, 280±5 mg, 290±5 mg, or 300±5 mg. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compound is containedin the tablet in an amount of 5±2.5 mg, 7.5±2.5 mg, 10±2.5 mg, 15±2.5mg, 20±2.5 mg, 25±2.5 mg, 30±2.5 mg, 35±2.5 mg, 40±2.5 mg, 45±2.5 mg,50±2.5 mg, 55±2.5 mg, 60±2.5 mg, 65±2.5 mg, 70±2.5 mg, 75±2.5 mg, 80±2.5mg, 85±2.5 mg, 90±2.5 mg, 95±2.5 mg, 100±2.5 mg, 105±2.5 mg, 110±2.5 mg,115±2.5 mg, 120±2.5 mg, 125±2.5 mg, 130±2.5 mg, 135±2.5 mg, 140±2.5 mg,145±2.5 mg, 150±2.5 mg, 155±2.5 mg, 160±2.5 mg, 165±2.5 mg, 170±2.5 mg,175±2.5 mg, 180±2.5 mg, 185±2.5 mg, 190±2.5 mg, 195±2.5 mg, 200±2.5 mg,205±2.5 mg, 210±2.5 mg, 215±2.5 mg, 220±2.5 mg, 225±2.5 mg, 230±2.5 mg,235±2.5 mg, 240±2.5 mg, 245±2.5 mg, 250±2.5 mg, 255±2.5 mg, 260±2.5 mg,or 265±2.5 mg.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically activecompound is tapentadol, preferably its HCl salt, and the tablet isadapted for administration once daily, twice daily, thrice daily or morefrequently. In this embodiment, pharmacologically active compound ispreferably contained in the tablet in an amount of from 25 to 100 mg.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically activecompound is oxymorphone, preferably its HCl salt, and the tablet isadapted for administration once daily, twice daily, thrice daily or morefrequently. In this embodiment, the pharmacologically active compound ispreferably contained in the tablet in an amount of from 5 to 40 mg. Inanother particularly preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically activecompound is oxymorphone, preferably its HCl salt, and the tablet isadapted for administration once daily. In this embodiment, thepharmacologically active compound is preferably contained in the tabletin an amount of from 10 to 80 mg.

In another particularly preferred embodiment, the pharmacologicallyactive compound is oxycodone, preferably its HCl salt, and the tablet isadapted for administration once daily, twice daily, thrice daily or morefrequently. In this embodiment, the pharmacologically active compound ispreferably contained in the tablet in an amount of from 5 to 80 mg.

In still another particularly preferred embodiment, thepharmacologically active compound is hydromorphone, preferably its HCl,and the tablet is adapted for administration once daily, twice daily,thrice daily or more frequently. In this embodiment, thepharmacologically active compound is preferably contained in the tabletin an amount of from 2 to 52 mg. In another particularly preferredembodiment, the pharmacologically active compound is hydro-morphone,preferably its HCl, and the tablet is adapted for administration oncedaily, twice daily, thrice daily or more frequently. In this embodiment,the pharmacologically active compound is preferably contained in thetablet in an amount of from 4 to 104 mg.

The particulates present in the tablets according to the inventionpreferably comprise 3 to 75 wt.-% of pharmacologically active compound,more preferably 5 to 70 wt.-% of pharmacologically active compound,still more preferably 7.5 to 65 wt.-% of pharmacologically activecompound, based on the total weight of a particulate.

Preferably, the content of the pharmacologically active compound is atleast 25 wt.-%, more preferably at least 30 wt.-%, still more preferablyat least 35 wt.-%, yet more preferably at least 40 wt.-%, mostpreferably at least 45 wt.-%, based on the total weight of aparticulate.

Preferably, the content of the pharmacologically active compound is atmost 70 wt.-%, more preferably at most 65 wt.-%, still more preferablyat most 60 wt.-%, yet more preferably at most 55 wt.-%, most preferablyat most 50 wt.-%, based on the total weight of a particulate.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the pharmacologically activecompound is within the range of 35±30 wt.-%, more preferably 35±25wt.-%, still more preferably 35±20 wt.-%, yet more preferably 35±15wt.-%, most preferably 35±10 wt.-%, and in particular 35±5 wt.-%, basedon the total weight of a particulate. In another preferred embodiment,the content of the pharmacologically active compound is within the rangeof 45±30 wt.-%, more preferably 45±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 45±20wt.-%, yet more preferably 45±15 wt.-%, most preferably 45±10 wt.-%, andin particular 45±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of a particulate. Instill another preferred embodiment, the content of the pharmacologicallyactive compound is within the range of 55±30 wt.-%, more preferably55±25 wt.-%, still more preferably 55±20 wt.-%, yet more preferably55±15 wt.-%, most preferably 55±10 wt.-%, and in particular 55±5 wt.-%,based on the total weight of a particulate.

The pharmacologically active compound that is included in thepreparation of the tablets according to the invention preferably has anaverage particle size of less than 500 microns, still more preferablyless than 300 microns, yet more preferably less than 200 or 100 microns.There is no lower limit on the average particle size and it may be, forexample, 50 microns. The particle size of pharmacologically activecompounds may be determined by any technique conventional in the art,e.g. laser light scattering, sieve analysis, light microscopy or imageanalysis. Generally speaking it is preferable that the largest dimensionof the pharmacologically active compound particle be less than the sizeof the particulates (e.g. less than the smallest dimension of theparticulates).

A skilled person knows how to determine pharmacokinetic parameters suchas t_(1/2), T_(max), C_(max), AUC and bioavailability. For the purposesof the description, the pharmacokinetic parameters, which may bedetermined from the blood plasma concentrations of3-(2-dimethylaminomethylcyclohexyl)phenol, are defined as follows:

C_(max) maximum measured plasma concentration of the active ingredientafter single administration (≡average peak plasma level) t_(max)interval of time from administration of the active ingredient untilC_(max) is reached AUC total area of the plasma concentration/time curveincluding the subarea from the final measured value extrapolated toinfinity t_(1/2) half-life

The above parameters are in each case stated as mean values of theindividual values for all investigated patients/test subjects.

A person skilled in the art knows how the pharmacokinetic parameters ofthe active ingredient may be calculated from the measured concentrationsof the active ingredient in the blood plasma. In this connection,reference may be made, for example, to Willi Cawello (ed.) Parametersfor Compartment-free Pharmacokinetics, Shaker Verlag Aachen (1999).

In a preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compound istapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. thehydrochloride. Preferably, the tablet according to the inventionprovides a mean absolute bioavailability of tapentadol of at least 22%,more preferably at least 24%, still more preferably at least 26%, yetmore preferably at least 28%, most preferably at least 30%, and inparticular at least 32%. T_(max) of tapentadol is preferably within therange of 1.25±1.20 h, more preferably 1.25±1.00 h, still more preferably1.25±0.80 h, yet more preferably 1.25±0.60 h, most preferably 1.25±0.40h, and in particular 1.25±0.20 h. t₁₁₂ of tapentadol is preferablywithin the range of 4.0±2.8 h, more preferably 4.0±2.4 h, still morepreferably 4.0±2.0 h, yet more preferably 4.0±1.6 h, most preferably4.0±1.2 h, and in particular 4.0±0.8 h. Preferably, when normalized to adose of 100 mg tapentadol, C_(max) of tapentadol is preferably withinthe range of 90±85 ng/mL, more preferably 90±75 ng/mL, still morepreferably 90±65 ng/mL, yet more preferably 90±55 ng/mL, most preferably90±45 ng/mL, and in particular 90±35 ng/mL; and/or AUC of tapentadol ispreferably within the range of 420±400 ng/mL·h, more preferably 420±350ng/mL·h, still more preferably 420±300 ng/mL·h, yet more preferably420±250 ng/mL·h, most preferably 420±200 ng/mL·h, and in particular420±150 ng/mL·h.

In another preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compoundis oxymorphone or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. thehydrochloride. Preferably, the tablet according to the inventionprovides a mean absolute bioavailability of oxymorphone of at least 1%,more preferably at least 2%, still more preferably at least 4%, yet morepreferably at least 6%, most preferably at least 8%, and in particularat least 10%. T_(max) of oxymorphone is preferably within the range of0.5±0.45 h, more preferably 0.5±0.40 h, still more preferably 0.5±0.35h, yet more preferably 0.5±0.30 h, most preferably 0.5±0.25 h, and inparticular 0.5±0.20 h. t_(1/2) of oxymorphone is preferably within therange of 9.5±8.0 h, more preferably 9.5±7.0 h, still more preferably9.5±6.0 h, yet more preferably 9.5±5.0 h, most preferably 9.5±4.0 h, andin particular 9.5±3.0 h. Preferably, when normalized to a dose of 20 mgoxymorphone, C_(max) of oxymorphone is preferably within the range of4.4±3.5 ng/mL, more preferably 4.4±3.0 ng/mL, still more preferably4.4±2.5 ng/mL, yet more preferably 4.4±2.0 ng/mL, most preferably4.4±1.5 ng/mL, and in particular 4.4±1.0 ng/mL; and/or AUC ofoxymorphone is preferably within the range of 20.0±15.0 ng/mL·h, morepreferably 20.0±12.5 ng/mL·h, still more preferably 20.0±10.0 ng/mL·h,yet more preferably 20.0±7.5 ng/mL·h, most preferably 20.0±6.0 ng/mL·h,and in particular 20.0±5.0 ng/mL·h.

In another preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically active compoundis oxycodone or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. thehydrochloride. Preferably, the tablet according to the inventionprovides a mean absolute bioavailability of oxycodone of at least 40%,more preferably at least 45%, still more preferably at least 50%, yetmore preferably at least 55%, most preferably at least 60%, and inparticular at least 70%. T_(max) of oxycodone is preferably within therange of 2.6±2.5 h, more preferably 2.6±2.0 h, still more preferably2.6±1.8 h, yet more preferably 2.6±0.1.6 h, most preferably 2.6±1.4 h,and in particular 2.6±1.20 h. t₁₁₂ of oxycodone is preferably within therange of 3.8±3.5 h, more preferably 3.8±3.0 h, still more preferably3.8±2.5 h, yet more preferably 3.8±2.0 h, most preferably 3.8±1.5 h, andin particular 3.8±1.0 h. Preferably, when normalized to a dose of 30 mgoxycodone, C_(max) of oxycodone is preferably within the range of 40±35ng/mL, more preferably 40±30 ng/mL, still more preferably 40±25 ng/mL,yet more preferably 40±20 ng/mL, most preferably 40±15 ng/mL, and inparticular 40±10 ng/mL; and/or AUC of oxycodone is preferably within therange of 270±250 ng/mL·h, more preferably 270±200 ng/mL·h, still morepreferably 270±150 ng/mL·h, yet more preferably 270±100 ng/mL·h, mostpreferably 270±75 ng/mL·h, and in particular 270±50 ng/mL·h.

In still another preferred embodiment, the pharmacologically activecompound is morphine or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, e.g.the sulfate. Preferably, the tablet according to the invention providesa mean absolute bioavailability of morphine of at least 15%, morepreferably at least 20%, still more preferably at least 25%, yet morepreferably at least 30%, most preferably at least 35%, and in particularat least 40%. T_(max) of morphine is preferably within the range of0.625±0.60 h, more preferably 0.625±0.50 h, still more preferably0.625±0.40 h, yet more preferably 0.625±0.30 h, most preferably0.625±0.20 h, and in particular 0.625±0.15 h. Preferably, whennormalized to a dose of 30 mg morphine sulfate, C_(max) of morphine ispreferably within the range of 25±20 ng/mL, more preferably 25±15 ng/mL,still more preferably 25±10 ng/mL, yet more preferably 25±5 ng/mL;and/or AUC of morphine is preferably within the range of 50±45 ng/mL·h,more preferably 50±40 ng/mL·h, still more preferably 50±35 ng/mL·h, yetmore preferably 50±30 ng/mL·h, most preferably 50±25 ng/mL·h, and inparticular 50±20 ng/mL·h.

The tablets according to the invention may also comprise one or moreadditional pharmacologically active compounds. The additionalpharmacologically active compound may be susceptible to abuse or anotherpharmaceutical. Additional pharmacologically active compounds may bepresent within the particulates (“intragranular”) or within the matrix(“extragranular”). Where an additional pharmacologically active compoundis present intragranularly, it may be present either in combination withone or more pharmacologically active compounds within the sameparticulates or in a discrete population of particulates alone andseparate from any other pharmacologically active compounds present inthe tablet.

In a preferred embodiment, the tablet according to the invention,preferably the particulates, comprise an opioid (agonist) as well as anopioid antagonist.

Any conventional opioid antagonist may be present, e.g. naltrexone ornaloxone or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts. Naloxone, includingits salts, is particularly preferred. The opioid antagonist may bepresent within the particulates or within the matrix. Alternatively,opioid antagonist may be provided in separate particulates to thepharmacologically active compounds. The preferred composition of suchparticulates is the same as that described for pharmacologically activecompound-containing particulates.

The ratio of opioid agonist to opioid antagonist in the tabletsaccording to the invention is preferably 1:1 to 3:1 by weight, forexample, about 2:1 by weight.

In another preferred embodiment, neither the particulates nor the tabletcomprise any opioid antagonist.

The particulates according to the invention contain a polyalkyleneoxide.

Preferably, the polyalkylene oxide is selected from polymethylene oxide,polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide, or copolymers thereof.Polyethylene oxide is preferred.

In a preferred embodiment, the polyalkylene oxide has a weight averagemolecular weight (M_(w)) or viscosity average molecular weight (M_(η))of at least 200,000 or at least 500,000 g/mol, preferably at least1,000,000 g/mol or at least 2,500,000 g/mol, more preferably in therange of about 1,000,000 g/mol to about 15,000,000 g/mol, and mostpreferably in the range of about 5,000,000 g/mol to about 10,000,000g/mol. Suitable methods to determine M_(w) and M_(η) are known to aperson skilled in the art. M_(η) is preferably determined by rheologicalmeasurements, whereas M_(w) can be determined by gel permeationchromatography (GPC).

Polyalkylene oxide may comprise a single polyalkylene oxide having aparticular average molecular weight, or a mixture (blend) of differentpolymers, such as two, three, four or five polymers, e.g., polymers ofthe same chemical nature but different average molecular weight,polymers of different chemical nature but same average molecular weight,or polymers of different chemical nature as well as different molecularweight.

For the purpose of the specification, a polyalkylene glycol has amolecular weight of up to 20,000 g/mol whereas a polyalkylene oxide hasa molecular weight of more than 20,000 g/mol. In a preferred embodiment,the weight average over all molecular weights of all polyalkylene oxidesthat are contained in the tablet is at least 200,000 g/mol. Thus,polyalkylene glycols, if any, are preferably not taken intoconsideration when determining the weight average molecular weight ofpolyalkylene oxide.

In a preferred embodiment, polyalkylene oxide is homogeneouslydistributed in the particulates according to the invention. Preferably,the pharmacologically active compound and polyalkylene oxide areintimately homogeneously distributed in the particulates so that theparticulates do not contain any segments where either pharmacologicallyactive compound is present in the absence of polyalkylene oxide or wherepolyalkylene oxide is present in the absence of pharmacologically activecompound.

When the particulates are film coated, the polyalkylene oxide ispreferably homogeneously distributed in the core of the particulates,i.e. the film coating preferably does not contain polyalkylene oxide.Nonetheless, the film coating as such may of course contain one or morepolymers, which however, preferably differ from the polyalkylene oxidecontained in the core.

The polyalkylene oxide may be combined with one or more differentpolymers selected from the group consisting of polyalkylene oxide,preferably polymethylene oxide, polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide;polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate,polystyrene, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poly(alk)acrylate, poly(hydroxy fattyacids), such as for example poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)(Biopol®), poly(hydroxyvaleric acid); polycaprolactone, polyvinylalcohol, polyesteramide, polyethylene succinate, polylactone,polyglycolide, polyurethane, polyamide, polylactide, polyacetal (forexample polysaccharides optionally with modified side chains),polylactide/glycolide, polylactone, polyglycolide, polyorthoester,polyanhydride, block polymers of polyethylene glycol and polybutyleneterephthalate (Polyactive®), polyanhydride (Polifeprosan), copolymersthereof, block-copolymers thereof (e.g., Poloxamer®), and mixtures of atleast two of the stated polymers, or other polymers with the abovecharacteristics.

Preferably, the molecular weight dispersity M_(w)/M_(n) of polyalkyleneoxide is within the range of 2.5±2.0, more preferably 2.5±1.5, stillmore preferably 2.5±1.0, yet more preferably 2.5±0.8, most preferably2.5±0.6, and in particular 2.5±0.4.

The polyalkylene oxide preferably has a viscosity at 25° C. of 30 to17,600 cP, more preferably 55 to 17,600 cP, still more preferably 600 to17,600 cP and most preferably 4,500 to 17,600 cP, measured in a 5 wt.-%aqueous solution using a model RVF Brookfield viscosimeter (spindle no.2/rotational speed 2 rpm); of 400 to 4,000 cP, more preferably 400 to800 cP or 2,000 to 4,000 cP, measured on a 2 wt.-% aqueous solutionusing the stated viscosimeter (spindle no. 1 or 3/rotational speed 10rpm); or of 1,650 to 10,000 cP, more preferably 1,650 to 5,500 cP, 5,500to 7,500 cP or 7,500 to 10,000 cP, measured on a 1 wt.-% aqueoussolution using the stated viscosimeter (spindle no. 2/rotational speed 2rpm).

Polyethylene oxide that is suitable for use in the tablets according tothe invention is commercially available from Dow. For example, PolyoxWSR N-12K, Polyox N-60K, Polyox WSR 301 NF or Polyox WSR 303NF may beused in the tablets according to the invention. For details concerningthe properties of these products, it can be referred to e.g. the productspecification.

Preferably, the content of the polyalkylene oxide is within the range offrom 1 to 60 wt.-%, more preferably 3 to 55 wt.-%, still more preferably5 to 50 wt.-%, yet more preferably 7 to 45 wt.-%, most preferably 10 to40 wt.-% and in particular 15 to 35 wt.-%, based on the total weight ofthe tablet. In a preferred embodiment, the content of the polyalkyleneoxide is at least 2 wt.-%, more preferably at least 5 wt.-%, still morepreferably at least 10 wt.-%, yet more preferably at least 15 wt.-% andin particular at least 20 wt.-%, based on the total weight of thetablet.

In a preferred embodiment, the overall content of polyalkylene oxide iswithin the range of 10±8 wt.-%, more preferably 10±6 wt.-%, mostpreferably 10±4 wt.-%, and in particular 10±2 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of the tablet. In another preferred embodiment, the overallcontent of polyalkylene oxide is within the range of 15±12 wt.-%, morepreferably 15±10 wt.-%, most preferably 15±7 wt.-%, and in particular15±3 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. In still anotherpreferred embodiment, the overall content of polyalkylene oxide iswithin the range of 20±16 wt.-%, more preferably 20±12 wt.-%, mostpreferably 20±8 wt.-%, and in particular 20±4 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of the tablet. In yet another preferred embodiment, the overallcontent of polyalkylene oxide is within the range of 25±20 wt.-%, morepreferably 25±15 wt.-%, most preferably 25±10 wt.-%, and in particular25±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet. In a furtherpreferred embodiment, the overall content of polyalkylene oxide iswithin the range of 30±20 wt.-%, more preferably 30±15 wt.-%, mostpreferably 30±10 wt.-%, and in particular 30±5 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of the tablet. In still a further a preferred embodiment, theoverall content of polyalkylene oxide is within the range of 35±20wt.-%, more preferably 35±15 wt.-%, most preferably 35±10 wt.-%, and inparticular 35±5 wt.-%. In a still further a preferred embodiment, theoverall content of polyalkylene oxide is within the range of 40±20wt.-%, more preferably 40±15 wt.-%, and most preferably 40±10 wt.-%, andin particular 40±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet.

Preferably, the content of the polyalkylene oxide is within the range offrom 1 to 99 wt.-%, more preferably 5 to 95 wt.-%, still more preferably10 to 90 wt.-%, yet more preferably 15 to 85 wt.-%, most preferably 20to 80 wt.-% and in particular 25 to 75 wt.-%, based on the total weightof the particulates. In a preferred embodiment, the content of thepolyalkylene oxide is at least 10 wt.-%, more preferably at least 15wt.-%, still more preferably at least 20 wt.-%, yet more preferably atleast 25 wt.-% and in particular at least 30 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of the particulates.

In a preferred embodiment, the overall content of polyalkylene oxide iswithin the range of 30±20 wt.-%, more preferably 30±15 wt.-%, mostpreferably 30±10 wt.-%, and in particular 30±5 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of the particulates. In another preferred embodiment, the overallcontent of polyalkylene oxide is within the range of 35±20 wt.-%, morepreferably 35±15 wt.-%, most preferably 35±10 wt.-%, and in particular35±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the particulates. In stillanother preferred embodiment, the overall content of polyalkylene oxideis within the range of 40±20 wt.-%, more preferably 40±15 wt.-%, mostpreferably 40±10 wt.-%, and in particular 40±5 wt.-%, based on the totalweight of the particulates. In yet another preferred embodiment, theoverall content of polyalkylene oxide is within the range of 45±20wt.-%, more preferably 45±15 wt.-%, most preferably 45±10 wt.-%, and inparticular 45±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the particulates. Ina further preferred embodiment, the overall content of polyalkyleneoxide is within the range of 50±20 wt.-%, more preferably 50±15 wt.-%,most preferably 50±10 wt.-%, and in particular 50±5 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of the particulates. In still a further a preferredembodiment, the overall content of polyalkylene oxide is within therange of 55±20 wt.-%, more preferably 55±15 wt.-%, most preferably 55±10wt.-%, and in particular 55±5 wt.-%. In a still further a preferredembodiment, the overall content of polyalkylene oxide is within therange of 60±15 wt.-%, more preferably 60±10 wt.-%, most preferably 60±5wt.-%, and in particular 60±5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of theparticulates.

Preferably, the relative weight ratio of the polyalkylene oxide to thepharmacologically active compound is within the range of 1:1.00±0.75,more preferably 1:1.00±0.50, still more preferably 1:1.00±0.40, yet morepreferably 1:1.00±0.30, most preferably 1:1.00±0.20, and in particular1:1.00±0.10.

The particulates according to the invention may contain additionalpharmaceutical excipients conventionally contained in tablets inconventional amounts, such as antioxidants, preservatives, lubricants,plasticizer, fillers, binders, and the like.

The skilled person will readily be able to determine appropriate furtherexcipients as well as the quantities of each of these excipients.Specific examples of pharmaceutically acceptable carriers and excipientsthat may be used to formulate the tablets according to the invention aredescribed in the Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients, AmericanPharmaceutical Association (1986).

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates do not contain adisintegrant.

Preferably, the particulates further comprise an antioxidant. Suitableantioxidants include ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA),butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), salts of ascorbic acid,monothioglycerol, phosphorous acid, vitamin C, vitamin E and thederivatives thereof, coniferyl benzoate, nordihydroguajaretic acid,gallus acid esters, sodium bisulfite, particularly preferablybutylhydroxytoluene or butylhydroxyanisole and α-tocopherol. Theantioxidant is preferably present in quantities of 0.01 wt.-% to 10wt.-%, more preferably of 0.03 wt.-% to 5 wt.-%, most preferably of 0.05wt.-% to 2.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the particulates.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates further comprise an acid,preferably citric acid. The amount of acid is preferably in the range of0.01 wt.-% to about 20 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 0.02 wt.-%to about 10 wt.-%, and still more preferably in the range of 0.05 wt.-%to about 5 wt.-%, and most preferably in the range of 0.1 wt.-% to about1.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the particulates.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates further comprise anotherpolymer which is preferably selected from cellulose esters and celluloseethers, in particular hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC).

Other preferred polymers are polyvinyl caprolactam-polyvinylacetate-polyethylene glycol graft co-polymers, such as the onecommercially available under the trade name Soluplus®.

The amount of the further polymer, preferably hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, preferably ranges from 0.1 wt.-% to about 30 wt.-%,more preferably in the range of 1.0 wt.-% to about 20 wt.-%, mostpreferably in the range of 2.0 wt.-% to about 15 wt.-%, and inparticular in the range of 3.5 wt.-% to about 10.5 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of the particulates.

In a preferred embodiment, the relative weight ratio of the polyalkyleneoxide to the further polymer is within the range of 4.5±2:1, morepreferably 4.5±1.5:1, still more preferably 4.5±1:1, yet more preferably4.5±0.5:1, most preferably 4.5±0.2:1, and in particular 4.5±0.1:1. Inanother preferred embodiment, the relative weight ratio of thepolyalkylene oxide to the further polymer is within the range of 8±7:1,more preferably 8±6:1, still more preferably 8±5:1, yet more preferably8±4:1, most preferably 8±3:1, and in particular 8±2:1. In still anotherpreferred embodiment, the relative weight ratio of the polyalkyleneoxide to the further polymer is within the range of 11±8:1, morepreferably 11±7:1, still more preferably 11±6:1, yet more preferably11±5:1, most preferably 11±4:1, and in particular 11±3:1.

In another preferred embodiment, the particulates according to theinvention do not contain any further polymer besides the polyalkyleneoxide and optionally, polyethylene glycol.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates contain at least onelubricant. In another preferred embodiment, the particulates contain nolubricant. Especially preferred lubricants are selected from

-   -   magnesium stearate and stearic acid;    -   glycerides of fatty acids, including monoglycerides,        diglycerides, triglycerides, and mixtures thereof; preferably of        C₆ to C₂₂ fatty acids; especially preferred are partial        glycerides of the C₁₆ to C₂₂ fatty acids such as glycerol        behenat, glycerol palmitostearate and glycerol monostearate;    -   polyoxyethylene glycerol fatty acid esters, such as mixtures of        mono-, di- and triesters of glycerol and di- and monoesters of        macrogols having molecular weights within the range of from 200        to 4000 g/mol, e.g., macrogolglycerolcaprylocaprate,        macrogolglycerollaurate, macrogolglycerolococoate,        macrogolglycerollinoleate, macrogol-20-glycerolmonostearate,        macrogol-6-glycerolcaprylocaprate, macrogolglycerololeate;        macrogolglycerolstearate, macrogolglycerolhydroxystearate, and        macrogolglycerolrizinoleate;    -   polyglycolyzed glycerides, such as the one known and        commercially available under the trade name “Labrasol”;    -   fatty alcohols that may be linear or branched, such as        cetylalcohol, stearylalcohol, cetylstearyl alcohol,        2-octyldodecane-1-ol and 2-hexyldecane-1-ol;    -   polyethylene glycols having a molecular weight between 10,000        and 60,000 g/mol; and    -   natural semi-synthetic or synthetic waxes, preferably waxes with        a softening point of at least 50° C., more preferably 60° C.,        and in particular carnauba wax and bees wax.

Preferably, the amount of the lubricant ranges from 0.01 wt.-% to about10 wt.-%, more preferably in the range of 0.05 wt.-% to about 7.5 wt.-%,most preferably in the range of 0.1 wt.-% to about 5 wt.-%, and inparticular in the range of 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of the particulates.

Preferably, the particulates further comprise a plasticizer. Theplasticizer improves the processability of the polyalkylene oxide. Apreferred plasticizer is polyalkylene glycol, like polyethylene glycol,triacetin, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, waxes and/or microcrystallinewaxes. Particularly preferred plasticizers are polyethylene glycols,such as PEG 6000.

Preferably, the content of the plasticizer is within the range of from0.5 to 30 wt.-%, more preferably 1.0 to 25 wt.-%, still more preferably2.5 wt.-% to 22.5 wt.-%, yet more preferably 5.0 wt.-% to 20 wt.-%, mostpreferably 6 to 20 wt.-% and in particular 7 wt.-% to 17.5 wt.-%, basedon the total weight of the particulates.

In a preferred embodiment, the plasticizer is a polyalkylene glycolhaving a content within the range of 7±6 wt.-%, more preferably 7±5wt.-%, still more preferably 7±4 wt.-%, yet more preferably 7±3 wt.-%,most preferably 7±2 wt.-%, and in particular 7±1 wt.-%, based on thetotal weight of the particulates.

In another preferred embodiment, the plasticizer is a polyalkyleneglycol having a content within the range of 10±8 wt.-%, more preferably10±6 wt.-%, still more preferably 10±5 wt.-%, yet more preferably 10±4wt.-%, most preferably 10±3 wt.-%, and in particular 10±2 wt.-%, basedon the total weight of the particulates.

In a preferred embodiment, the relative weight ratio of the polyalkyleneoxide to the polyalkylene glycol is within the range of 5.4±2:1, morepreferably 5.4±1.5:1, still more preferably 5.4±1:1, yet more preferably5.4±0.5:1, most preferably 5.4±0.2:1, and in particular 5.4±0.1:1. Thisratio satisfies the requirements of relative high polyalkylene oxidecontent and good extrudability.

Plasticizers can sometimes act as a lubricant, and lubricants cansometimes act as a plasticizer.

The particulates and the matrix material of the tablets according to theinvention preferably do not contain any polymers selected from the groupconsisting of

-   -   acrylates (such as acrylic and methacrylic polymers including        acrylic acid and methacrylic acid copolymers, methyl        methacrylate copolymers, ethoxyethyl methacrylates, cyanoethyl        methacrylate, poly(acrylic acid), poly(methacrylic acid),        methacrylic acid alkylamide copolymer, poly(methyl        methacrylate), polymethacrylate, poly(methyl methacrylate)        copolymer, polyacrylamide, aminoalkyl methacrylate copolymer,        poly(methacrylic acid anhydride), and glycidyl methacrylate        copolymers; e.g., Eudragit® NE, NM, RS or RL).    -   alkylcelluloses and hydroxy alkyl celluloses (such as        methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose and        hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose); and    -   gelling agents which hydrate to form gels to control the        movement of water, such as high molecular weight grade (high        viscosity) hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC), pectin, locust        bean gum and xanthan gum.

In a preferred embodiment, the tablet according to the inventioncontains no substances which irritate the nasal passages and/or pharynx,i.e. substances which, when administered via the nasal passages and/orpharynx, bring about a physical reaction which is either so unpleasantfor the patient that he/she does not wish to or cannot continueadministration, for example burning, or physiologically counteractstaking of the corresponding active compound, for example due toincreased nasal secretion or sneezing. Further examples of substanceswhich irritate the nasal passages and/or pharynx are those which causeburning, itching, urge to sneeze, increased formation of secretions or acombination of at least two of these stimuli. Corresponding substancesand the quantities thereof which are conventionally to be used are knownto the person skilled in the art. Some of the substances which irritatethe nasal passages and/or pharynx are accordingly based on one or moreconstituents or one or more plant parts of a hot substance drug.Corresponding hot substance drugs are known per se to the person skilledin the art and are described, for example, in “PharmazeutischeBiologie—Drogen and ihre Inhaltsstoffe” by Prof. Dr. Hildebert Wagner,2nd., revised edition, Gustav Fischer Verlag, Stuttgart-New York, 1982,pages 82 et seq. The corresponding description is hereby introduced as areference and is deemed to be part of the disclosure.

The tablet according to the invention furthermore preferably contains noantagonists for the pharmacologically active compound, preferably noantagonists against psychotropic substances, in particular noantagonists against opioids. Antagonists suitable for a givenpharmacologically active compound are known to the person skilled in theart and may be present as such or in the form of correspondingderivatives, in particular esters or ethers, or in each case in the formof corresponding physiologically acceptable compounds, in particular inthe form of the salts or solvates thereof. The tablet according to theinvention preferably contains no antagonists selected from among thegroup comprising naloxone, naltrexone, nalmefene, nalide, nalmexone,nalorphine or naluphine, in each case optionally in the form of acorresponding physiologically acceptable compound, in particular in theform of a base, a salt or solvate; and no neuroleptics, for example acompound selected from among the group comprising haloperidol,promethacine, fluphenazine, perphenazine, levomepromazine, thioridazine,perazine, chlorpromazine, chlorprothixine, zuclopenthixol, flupentixol,prothipendyl, zotepine, benperidol, pipamperone, melperone andbromperidol.

The tablet according to the invention furthermore preferably contains noemetic. Emetics are known to the person skilled in the art and may bepresent as such or in the form of corresponding derivatives, inparticular esters or ethers, or in each case in the form ofcorresponding physiologically acceptable compounds, in particular in theform of the salts or solvates thereof. The tablet according to theinvention preferably contains no emetic based on one or moreconstituents of ipecacuanha (ipecac) root, for example based on theconstituent emetine, as are, for example, described in “PharmazeutischeBiologie—Drogen and ihre Inhaltsstoffe” by Prof. Dr. Hildebert Wagner,2nd, revised edition, Gustav Fischer Verlag, Stuttgart, New York, 1982.The corresponding literature description is hereby introduced as areference and is deemed to be part of the disclosure. The tabletaccording to the invention preferably also contains no apomorphine as anemetic.

Finally, the tablet according to the invention preferably also containsno bitter substance. Bitter substances and the quantities effective foruse may be found in US-2003/0064099 A1, the corresponding disclosure ofwhich should be deemed to be the disclosure of the present applicationand is hereby introduced as a reference. Examples of bitter substancesare aromatic oils, such as peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, bitter almondoil, menthol, fruit aroma substances, aroma substances from lemons,oranges, limes, grapefruit or mixtures thereof, and/or denatoniumbenzoate.

The tablet according to the invention accordingly preferably containsneither substances which irritate the nasal passages and/or pharynx, norantagonists for the pharmacologically active compound, nor emetics, norbitter substances.

Particularly preferred contents of pharmacologically active compound,polyalkylene oxide, plasticizer and antioxidant of the particulates,relative to the total weight of the particulates, are summarized asembodiments B¹ to B⁶ in the table here below:

wt.-% B¹ B² B³ B⁴ B⁵ B⁶ active compound 45 ± 30 45 ± 25 45 ± 20 45 ± 1545 ± 10 45 ± 5  polyalkylene oxide 45 ± 30 45 ± 25 45 ± 20 45 ± 15 45 ±10 45 ± 5  plasticizer 8 ± 6 8 ± 5 8 ± 4 8 ± 3 8 ± 2 8 ± 1 antioxidant0.10 ± 0.08 0.10 ± 0.06 0.10 ± 0.04 0.10 ± 0.03 0.10 ± 0.02 0.10 ± 0.01wherein the pharmacologically active compound is preferably an opioid,particularly preferably tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable saltthereof; the polyalkylene oxide preferably is a polyethylene oxidehaving a weight average molecular weight of at least 500,000 g/mol; theplasticizer preferably is a poylethylene glycol; and the antioxidantpreferably is α-tocopherol.

Besides the particulates and the preferably pre-compacted or granulatedmatrix material, the tablet according to the invention may comprise oneor more pharmaceutical excipients such as binders, fillers, lubricantsand the like.

In a preferred embodiment, the table additionally comprises a lubricant.Magnesium stearate is preferred. Further preferred lubricants aredescribed above and therefore are not repeated hereinafter.

If the tablet contains an additional lubricant outside the preferablypre-compacted or pre-granulated matrix material, its content ispreferably not more than 1 wt.-%, more preferably not more than 0.5wt.-%, based on the total weight of the tablet.

While the particulates that are contained in the tablet according to theinvention preferably exhibit increased mechanical strength, the tabletas such preferably has conventional mechanical properties. Typically,the tablet according to the invention can be crushed e.g. by means of ahammer thereby yielding a fractured composition containing the matrixmaterial, the particulates and any other ingredients contained in thetablet. However, the particulates thereby obtained in more or lessisolated form preferably cannot be further crushed and fractured bymeans of a hammer.

Preferably, the particulates are hot melt-extruded and/or have abreaking strength of at least 300N.

The tablet according to the invention is tamper-resistant. Preferably,tamper-resistance is achieved based on the mechanical properties of theparticulates so that comminution is avoided or at least substantiallyimpeded. According to the invention, the term comminution means thepulverization of the particulates using conventional means usuallyavailable to an abuser, for example a pestle and mortar, a hammer, amallet or other conventional means for pulverizing under the action offorce. Thus, tamper-resistance preferably means that pulverization ofthe particulates using conventional means is avoided or at leastsubstantially impeded.

Preferably, the mechanical properties of the particulates according tothe invention, particularly their breaking strength and deformability,substantially rely on the presence and spatial distribution ofpolyalkylene oxide, although their mere presence does typically notsuffice in order to achieve said properties. The advantageous mechanicalproperties of the particulates according to the invention may notautomatically be achieved by simply processing pharmacologically activecompound, polyalkylene oxide, and optionally further excipients by meansof conventional methods for the preparation of tablets. In fact, usuallysuitable apparatuses must be selected for the preparation and criticalprocessing parameters must be adjusted, particularly pressure/force,temperature and time. Thus, even if conventional apparatuses are used,the process protocols usually must be adapted in order to meet therequired criteria.

In general, the particulates exhibiting the desired properties may beobtained only if, during preparation of the particulates,

-   -   suitable components    -   in suitable amounts    -   are exposed to    -   a sufficient pressure    -   at a sufficient temperature    -   for a sufficient period of time.

Thus, regardless of the apparatus used, the process protocols must beadapted in order to meet the required criteria. Therefore, the breakingstrength and deformability of the particulates is separable from thecomposition.

The particulates contained in the tablet according to the inventionpreferably have a breaking strength of at least 300 N, at least 400 N,or at least 500 N, preferably at least 600 N, more preferably at least700 N, still more preferably at least 800 N, yet more preferably atleast 1000 N, most preferably at least 1250 N and in particular at least1500 N.

In order to verify whether a particulate exhibits a particular breakingstrength of e.g. 300 N or 500 N it is typically not necessary to subjectsaid particulate to forces much higher than 300 N and 500 N,respectively. Thus, the breaking strength test can usually be terminatedonce the force corresponding to the desired breaking strength has beenslightly exceeded, e.g. at forces of e.g. 330 N and 550 N, respectively.

The “breaking strength” (resistance to crushing) of a tablet and of aparticulate is known to the skilled person. In this regard it can bereferred to, e.g., W. A. Ritschel, Die Tablette, 2. Auflage, EditioCantor Verlag Aulendorf, 2002; H Liebermann et al., Tablets: Tablets,Vol. 2, Informa Healthcare; 2 edition, 1990; and Encyclopedia ofPharmaceutical Technology, Informa Healthcare; 1 edition.

For the purpose of the specification, the breaking strength ispreferably defined as the amount of force that is necessary in order tofracture the particulate (=breaking force). Therefore, for the purposeof the specification a particulate does preferably not exhibit thedesired breaking strength when it breaks, i.e., is fractured into atleast two independent parts that are separated from one another. Inanother preferred embodiment, however, the particulate is regarded asbeing broken if the force decreases by 50% (threshold value) of thehighest force measured during the measurement (see below).

The particulates according to the invention are distinguished fromconventional particulates that can be contained in tablets in that, dueto their breaking strength, they cannot be pulverized by the applicationof force with conventional means, such as for example a pestle andmortar, a hammer, a mallet or other usual means for pulverization, inparticular devices developed for this purpose (tablet crushers). In thisregard “pulverization” means crumbling into small particles. Avoidanceof pulverization virtually rules out oral or parenteral, in particularintravenous or nasal abuse.

Conventional particulates typically have a breaking strength well below200 N.

The breaking strength of conventional round tablets/particulates may beestimated according to the following empirical formula: BreakingStrength [in N]=10×Diameter Of The Tablet/Particulate [in mm]. Thus,according to said empirical formula, a round tablet/particulate having abreaking strength of at least 300 N would require a diameter of at least30 mm). Such a particulate, however, could not be swallowed, let alone atablet containing a plurality of such particulates. The above empiricalformula preferably does not apply to the particulates according to theinvention, which are not conventional but rather special.

Further, the actual mean chewing force is about 220 N (cf., e.g., P. A.Proeschel et al., J Dent Res, 2002, 81(7), 464-468). This means thatconventional particulates having a breaking strength well below 200 Nmay be crushed upon spontaneous chewing, whereas the particulatesaccording to the invention may preferably not.

Still further, when applying a gravitational acceleration of about 9.81m/s², 300 N correspond to a gravitational force of more than 30 kg, i.e.the particulates according to the invention can preferably withstand aweight of more than 30 kg without being pulverized.

Methods for measuring the breaking strength of a tablet are known to theskilled artisan. Suitable devices are commercially available.

For example, the breaking strength (resistance to crushing) can bemeasured in accordance with the Eur. Ph. 5.0, 2.9.8 or 6.0, 2.09.08“Resistance to Crushing of Tablets”. The test is intended to determine,under defined conditions, the resistance to crushing of tablets andparticulates, respectively, measured by the force needed to disrupt themby crushing. The apparatus consists of 2 jaws facing each other, one ofwhich moves towards the other. The flat surfaces of the jaws areperpendicular to the direction of movement. The crushing surfaces of thejaws are flat and larger than the zone of contact with the tablet andparticulate, respectively. The apparatus is calibrated using a systemwith a precision of 1 Newton. The tablet and particulate, respectively,is placed between the jaws, taking into account, where applicable, theshape, the break-mark and the inscription; for each measurement thetablet and particulate, respectively, is oriented in the same way withrespect to the direction of application of the force (and the directionof extension in which the breaking strength is to be measured). Themeasurement is carried out on 10 tablets and particulates, respectively,taking care that all fragments have been removed before eachdetermination. The result is expressed as the mean, minimum and maximumvalues of the forces measured, all expressed in Newton.

A similar description of the breaking strength (breaking force) can befound in the USP. The breaking strength can alternatively be measured inaccordance with the method described therein where it is stated that thebreaking strength is the force required to cause a tablet andparticulate, respectively, to fail (i.e., break) in a specific plane.The tablets and particulates, respectively, are generally placed betweentwo platens, one of which moves to apply sufficient force to the tabletand particulate, respectively, to cause fracture. For conventional,round (circular cross-section) tablets and particulates, respectively,loading occurs across their diameter (sometimes referred to as diametralloading), and fracture occurs in the plane. The breaking force oftablets and particulates, respectively, is commonly called hardness inthe pharmaceutical literature; however, the use of this term ismisleading. In material science, the term hardness refers to theresistance of a surface to penetration or indentation by a small probe.The term crushing strength is also frequently used to describe theresistance of tablets and particulate, respectively, to the applicationof a compressive load. Although this term describes the true nature ofthe test more accurately than does hardness, it implies that tablets andparticulate, respectively, are actually crushed during the test, whichis often not the case.

Alternatively, the breaking strength (resistance to crushing) can bemeasured in accordance with WO 2008/107149, which can be regarded as amodification of the method described in the Eur. Ph. The apparatus usedfor the measurement is preferably a “Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester,F_(max)=2.5 kN with a maximum draw of 1150 mm, which should be set upwith one column and one spindle, a clearance behind of 100 mm and a testspeed adjustable between 0.1 and 800 mm/min together with testControlsoftware. A skilled person knows how to properly adjust the test speed,e.g. to 10 mm/min, 20 mm/min, or 40 mm/min, for example. Measurement isperformed using a pressure piston with screw-in inserts and a cylinder(diameter 10 mm), a force transducer, F_(max). 1 kN, diameter=8 mm,class 0.5 from 10 N, class 1 from 2 N to ISO 7500-1, with manufacturerstest certificate M according to DIN 55350-18 (Zwick gross forceF_(max)=1.45 kN) (all apparatus from Zwick GmbH & Co. KG, Ulm, Germany)with Order No BTC-FR 2.5 TH. D09 for the tester, Order No BTC-LC 0050N.P01 for the force transducer, Order No BO 70000 S06 for the centringdevice.

When using the testControl software (testXpert V10.11), the followingexemplified settings and parameters have revealed to be useful:LE-position: clamping length 150 mm. LE-speed: 500 mm/min, clampinglength after pre-travel: 195 mm, pre-travel speed: 500 mm/min, nopre-force control—pre-force: pre-force 1N, pre-force speed 10mm/min—sample data: no sample form, measuring length traverse distance10 mm, no input required prior to testing—testing/end of test; testspeed: position-controlled 10 mm/min, delay speed shift: 1, force shutdown threshold 50% F_(max), no force threshold for break-tests, no maxlength variation, upper force limit: 600N—expansion compensation: nocorrection of measuring length—actions after testing: LE to be set aftertest, no unload of sample—TRS: data memory: TRS distance interval untilbreak 1 μm, TRS time interval 0.1 s, TRS force interval 1N—machine;traverse distance controller: upper soft end 358 mm, lower soft end 192mm—lower test space. Parallel arrangement of the upper plate and theambos should be ensured—these parts must not touch during or aftertesting. After testing, a small gap (e.g. 0.1 or 0.2 mm) should still bepresent between the two brackets in intimated contact with the testedparticulate, representing the remaining thickness of the deformedparticulate.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulate is regarded as being brokenif it is fractured into at least two separate pieces of comparablemorphology. Separated matter having a morphology different from that ofthe deformed particulate, e.g. dust, is not considered as piecesqualifying for the definition of breaking.

The particulates according to the invention preferably exhibitmechanical strength over a wide temperature range, in addition to thebreaking strength (resistance to crushing) optionally also sufficienthardness, yield strength, fatigue strength, impact resistance, impactelasticity, tensile strength, compressive strength and/or modulus ofelasticity, optionally also at low temperatures (e.g. below −24° C.,below −40° C. or possibly even in liquid nitrogen), for it to bevirtually impossible to pulverize by spontaneous chewing, grinding in amortar, pounding, etc. Thus, preferably, the comparatively high breakingstrength of the particulate according to the invention is maintainedeven at low or very low temperatures, e.g., when the tablet is initiallychilled to increase its brittleness, for example to temperatures below−25° C., below −40° C. or even in liquid nitrogen.

The particulate according to the invention is characterized by a certaindegree of breaking strength. This does not mean that the particulatemust also exhibit a certain degree of hardness. Hardness and breakingstrength are different physical properties. Therefore, thetamper-resistance of the tablet does not necessarily depend on thehardness of the particulates. For instance, due to its breakingstrength, impact strength, elasticity modulus and tensile strength,respectively, the particulates can preferably be deformed, e.g.plastically, when exerting an external force, for example using ahammer, but cannot be pulverized, i.e., crumbled into a high number offragments. In other words, the particulates according to the inventionare characterized by a certain degree of breaking strength, but notnecessarily also by a certain degree of form stability.

Therefore, in the meaning of the specification, a particulate that isdeformed when being exposed to a force in a particular direction ofextension but that does not break (plastic deformation or plastic flow)is preferably to be regarded as having the desired breaking strength insaid direction of extension.

Preferred particulates present in the tablets according to the inventionare those having a suitable tensile strength as determined by a testmethod currently accepted in the art. Further preferred particulates arethose having a Youngs Modulus as determined by a test method of the art.Still further preferred particulates are those having an acceptableelongation at break.

Irrespective of whether the particulates according to the invention havean increased breaking strength or nor, the particulates according to theinvention preferably exhibit a certain degree of deformability. Theparticulates contained in the tablet according to the inventionpreferably have a deformability such that they show an increase,preferably a substantially steady increase of the force at acorresponding decrease of the displacement in theforce-displacement-diagram when being subjected to a breaking strengthtest as described above.

This mechanical property, i.e. the deformability of the individualparticulates, is illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates the measurement and the correspondingforce-displacement-diagram. In particular, FIG. 5A shows the initialsituation at the beginning of the measurement. The sample particulate(9) is placed between upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) which each arein intimate contact with the surface of the particulate (9). The initialdisplacement d₀ between upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) correspondsto the extension of the particulate orthogonal to the surfaces of upperjaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b). At this time, no force is exerted at alland thus, no graph is displayed in the force-displacement-diagram below.When the measurement is commenced, the upper jaw is moved in directionof lower jaw (8 b), preferably at a constant speed. FIG. 5B shows asituation where due to the movement of upper jaw (8 a) towards lower jaw(8 b) a force is exerted on particulate (9). Because of itsdeformability, the particulate (9) is flattened without being fractured.The force-displacement-diagram indicates that after a reduction of thedisplacement d₀ of upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) by distance x₁,i.e. at a displacement of d₁=d₀−x₁, a force F₁ is measured. FIG. 5Cshows a situation where due to the continuous movement of upper jaw (8a) towards lower jaw (8 b), the force that is exerted on particulate (9)causes further deformation, although the particulate (9) does notfracture. The force-displacement-diagram indicates that after areduction of the displacement d₀ of upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b)by distance x₂, i.e. at a displacement of d₂=d₀−x₂, a force F₂ ismeasured. Under these circumstances, the particulate (9) has not beenbroken (fractured) and a substantially steady increase of the force inthe force-displacement-diagram is measured.

In contrast, FIG. 6 schematically illustrates the measurement and thecorresponding force-displacement-diagram of a conventional comparativeparticulate not having the degree of deformability as the particulatesaccording to the invention. FIG. 6A shows the initial situation at thebeginning of the measurement. The comparative sample particulate (9) isplaced between upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) which each are inintimate contact with the surface of the comparative particulate (9).The initial displacement d₀ between upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b)corresponds to the extension of the comparative particulate orthogonalto the surfaces of upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b). At this time, noforce is exerted at all and thus, no graph is displayed in theforce-displacement-diagram below. When the measurement is commenced, theupper jaw is moved in direction of lower jaw (8 b), preferably at aconstant speed. FIG. 6B shows a situation where due to the movement ofupper jaw (8 a) towards lower jaw (8 b) a force is exerted oncomparative particulate (9). Because of some deformability, thecomparative particulate (9) is slightly flattened without beingfractured. The force-displacement-diagram indicates that after areduction of the displacement d₀ of upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b)by distance x₁, i.e. at a displacement of d₁=d₀−x₁, a force F₁ ismeasured. FIG. 6C shows a situation where due to the continuous movementof upper jaw (8 a) towards lower jaw (8 b), the force that is exerted onparticulate (9) causes sudden fracture of the comparative particulate(9). The force-displacement-diagram indicates that after a reduction ofthe displacement d₀ of upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) by distancex₂, i.e. at a displacement of d₂=d₀−x₂, a force F₂ is measured thatsuddenly drops when the particulate fractures. Under thesecircumstances, the particulate (9) has been broken (fractured) and nosteady increase of the force in the force-displacement-diagram ismeasured. The sudden drop (decrease) of the force can easily berecognized and does not need to be quantified for the measurement. Thesteady increase in the force-displacement-diagram ends at displacementd₂=d₀−x₂ when the particulate breaks.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates contained in the tabletaccording to the invention have a deformability such that they show anincrease, preferably a substantially steady increase of the force at acorresponding decrease of the displacement in theforce-displacement-diagram when being subjected to a breaking strengthtest as described above (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester, constantspeed), preferably at least until the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a)and lower jaw (8 b) has been reduced to a value of 90% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d=0.9·d₀), preferably to a displacement d of 80%of the original displacement d₀, more preferably to a displacement d of70% of the original displacement d₀, still more preferably to adisplacement d of 60% of the original displacement d₀, yet morepreferably to a displacement d of 50% of the original displacement d₀,even more preferably to a displacement d of 40% of the originaldisplacement d₀, most preferably to a displacement d of 30% of theoriginal displacement d₀, and in particular to a displacement d of 20%of the original displacement d₀, or to a displacement d of 15% of theoriginal displacement d₀, to a displacement d of 10% of the originaldisplacement d₀, or to a displacement d of 5% of the originaldisplacement d₀.

In another preferred embodiment, the particulates contained in thetablet according to the invention have a deformability such that theyshow an increase, preferably a substantially steady increase of theforce at a corresponding decrease of the displacement in theforce-displacement-diagram when being subjected to a breaking strengthtest as described above (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester, constantspeed), preferably at least until the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a)and lower jaw (8 b) has been reduced to 0.80 mm or 0.75 mm, preferably0.70 mm or 0.65 mm, more preferably 0.60 mm or 0.55 mm, still morepreferably 0.50 mm or 0.45 mm, yet more preferably 0.40 mm or 0.35 mm,even more preferably 0.30 mm or 0.25 mm, most preferably 0.20 mm or 0.15mm and in particular 0.10 or 0.05 mm.

In still another preferred embodiment, the particulates contained in thetablet according to the invention have a deformability such that theyshow an increase, preferably a substantially steady increase of theforce at a corresponding decrease of the displacement in theforce-displacement-diagram when being subjected to a breaking strengthtest as described above (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester, constantspeed), at least until the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lowerjaw (8 b) has been reduced to 50% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e.d=do/2), whereas the force measured at said displacement (d=d₀/2) is atleast 25 N or at least 50 N, preferably at least 75 N or at least 100 N,still more preferably at least 150 N or at least 200 N, yet morepreferably at least 250 N or at least 300 N, even more preferably atleast 350 N or at least 400 N, most preferably at least 450 N or atleast 500 N, and in particular at least 625 N, or at least 750 N, or atleast 875 N, or at least 1000 N, or at least 1250 N, or at least 1500 N.

In another preferred embodiment, the particulates contained in thetablet according to the invention have a deformability such that theyshow an increase, preferably a substantially steady increase of theforce at a corresponding decrease of the displacement in theforce-displacement-diagram when being subjected to a breaking strengthtest as described above (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester, constantspeed), at least until the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lowerjaw (8 b) has been reduced by at least 0.1 mm, more preferably at least0.2 mm, still more preferably at least 0.3 mm, yet more preferably atleast 0.4 mm, even more preferably at least 0.5 mm, most preferably atleast 0.6 mm, and in particular at least 0.7 mm, whereas the forcemeasured at said displacement is within the range of from 5.0 N to 250N, more preferably from 7.5 N to 225 N, still more preferably from 10 Nto 200 N, yet more preferably from 15 N to 175 N, even more preferablyfrom 20 N to 150 N, most preferably from 25 N to 125 N, and inparticular from 30 N to 100 N.

In yet another embodiment, the particulates contained in the tabletaccording to the invention have a deformability such that they aredeformed without being fractured when subjected to a constant force ofe.g. 50 N, 100 N, 200 N, 300 N, 400 N, 500 N or 600 N in a breakingstrength test as described above (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester,constant force), until the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lowerjaw (8 b) is reduced so that no further deformation takes place at saidconstant force, whereas at this equilibrated state the displacement d ofupper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) is at most 90% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.9·d₀), preferably at most 80% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.8·d₀), more preferably at most 70% of theoriginal displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.7·d₀), still more preferably at most60% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.6·d₀), yet more preferablyat most 50% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.5·d₀), even morepreferably at most 40% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.4·d₀),most preferably at most 30% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e.d≦0.3·d₀), and in particular at most 20% of the original displacement d₀(i.e. d≦0.2·d₀), or at most 15% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e.d≦0.15·d₀), at most 10% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.1·d₀),or at most 5% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.05·d₀).

Preferably, the particulates contained in the tablet according to theinvention have a deformability such that they are deformed without beingfractured when subjected to a constant force of e.g. 50 N, 100 N, 200 N,300 N, 400 N, 500 N or 600 N in a breaking strength test as describedabove (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester, constant force), until thedisplacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) is reduced so thatno further deformation takes place at said constant force, whereas atthis equilibrated state the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lowerjaw (8 b) is at most 0.80 mm or at most 0.75 mm, preferably at most 0.70mm or at most 0.65 mm, more preferably at most 0.60 mm or at most 0.55mm, still more preferably at most 0.50 mm or at most 0.45 mm, yet morepreferably at most 0.40 mm or at most 0.35 mm, even more preferably atmost 0.30 mm or at most 0.25 mm, most preferably at most 0.20 mm or atmost 0.15 mm and in particular at most 0.10 or at most 0.05 mm.

In another embodiment, the particulates contained in the tabletaccording to the invention have a deformability such that they aredeformed without being fractured when subjected to a constant force ofe.g. 50 N, 100 N, 200 N, 300 N, 400 N, 500 N or 600 N in a breakingstrength test as described above (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester,constant force), until the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lowerjaw (8 b) is reduced so that no further deformation takes place at saidconstant force, whereas at this equilibrated state the displacement d ofupper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) is at least 5% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.05·d₀), preferably at least 10% of theoriginal displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.1·d₀), more preferably at least 15%of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.15·d₀), still more preferablyat least 20% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.2·d₀), yet morepreferably at least 30% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.3·d₀),even more preferably at least 40% of the original displacement d₀ (i.e.d≦0.4·d₀), most preferably at least 50% of the original displacement d₀(i.e. d≦0.5·d₀), and in particular at least 60% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.6·d₀), or at least 70% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.7·d₀), at least 80% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.8·d₀), or at least 90% of the originaldisplacement d₀ (i.e. d≦0.9·d₀).

Preferably, the particulates contained in the tablet according to theinvention have a deformability such that they are deformed without beingfractured when subjected to a constant force of e.g. 50 N, 100 N, 200 N,300 N, 400 N, 500 N or 600 N in a breaking strength test as describedabove (“Zwick Z 2.5” materials tester, constant force), until thedisplacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lower jaw (8 b) is reduced so thatno further deformation takes place at said constant force, whereas atthis equilibrated state the displacement d of upper jaw (8 a) and lowerjaw (8 b) is at least 0.05 mm or at least 0.10 mm, preferably at least0.15 mm or at least 0.20 mm, more preferably at least 0.25 mm or atleast 0.30 mm, still more preferably at least 0.35 mm or at least 0.40mm, yet more preferably at least 0.45 mm or at least 0.50 mm, even morepreferably at least 0.55 mm or at least 0.60 mm, most preferably atleast 0.65 mm or at least 0.70 mm and in particular at least 0.75 or atleast 0.80 mm.

Preferably, the tablet according to the invention provides under invitro conditions immediate release of the pharmacologically activecompound in accordance with Ph. Eur.

The term “immediate release” as applied to tablets is understood bypersons skilled in the art which has structural implications for therespective tablets. The term is defined, for example, in the currentissue of the US Pharmacopoeia (USP), General Chapter 1092, “THEDISSOLUTION PROCEDURE: DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION”, heading “STUDYDESIGN”, “Time Points”. For immediate-release dosage forms, the durationof the procedure is typically 30 to 60 minutes; in most cases, a singletime point specification is adequate for Pharmacopeia purposes.Industrial and regulatory concepts of product comparability andperformance may require additional time points, which may also berequired for product registration or approval. A sufficient number oftime points should be selected to adequately characterize the ascendingand plateau phases of the dissolution curve. According to theBiopharmaceutics Classification System referred to in several FDAGuidances, highly soluble, highly permeable drugs formulated withrapidly dissolving products need not be subjected to a profilecomparison if they can be shown to release 85% or more of the activedrug substance within 15 minutes. For these types of products aone-point test will suffice. However, most products do not fall intothis category. Dissolution profiles of immediate-release productstypically show a gradual increase reaching 85% to 100% at about 30 to 45minutes. Thus, dissolution time points in the range of 15, 20, 30, 45,and 60 minutes are usual for most immediate-release products.

Preferably, under physiological conditions the tablet according to theinvention has released after 30 minutes at least 70%, more preferably atleast 75%, still more preferably at least 80%, yet more preferably atleast 82%, most preferably at least 84% and in particular at east 86% ofthe pharmacologically active compound originally contained in thetablet.

Preferably, under physiological conditions the tablet according to theinvention has released after 10 minutes at least 70%, more preferably atleast 73%, still more preferably at least 76%, yet more preferably atleast 78%, most preferably at least 80% and in particular at east 82% ofthe pharmacologically active compound originally contained in thetablet.

Further preferred release profiles C¹ to C¹⁰ are summarized in the tablehere below [all data in wt.-% of released pharmacologically activecompound]:

time C¹ C² C³ C⁴ C⁵ C⁶ C⁷ C⁸ C⁹ C¹⁰ 10 min ≧30 ≧35 ≧40 ≧45 ≧50 ≧60 ≧70≧80 ≧80 ≧80 20 min ≧50 ≧55 ≧60 ≧65 ≧70 ≧75 ≧80 ≧85 ≧90 ≧95 30 min ≧55≧60 ≧65 ≧70 ≧75 ≧85 ≧90 ≧95 ≧95 ≧95 40 min ≧60 ≧65 ≧70 ≧80 ≧85 ≧90 ≧95≧95 ≧95 ≧95 50 min ≧65 ≧70 ≧80 ≧85 ≧88 ≧92 ≧95 ≧95 ≧95 ≧95 60 min ≧75≧80 ≧85 ≧90 ≧92 ≧94 ≧95 ≧95 ≧95 ≧95

Preferably, the release profile, the drug and the pharmaceuticalexcipients of the tablet according to the invention are stable uponstorage, preferably upon storage at elevated temperature, e.g. 40° C.,for 3 months in sealed containers.

In connection with the release profile “stable” means that whencomparing the initial release profile with the release profile afterstorage, at any given time point the release profiles deviate from oneanother by not more than 20%, more preferably not more than 15%, stillmore preferably not more than 10%, yet more preferably not more than7.5%, most preferably not more than 5.0% and in particular not more than2.5%.

In connection with the drug and the pharmaceutical excipients “stable”means that the tablets satisfy the requirements of EMEA concerningshelf-life of pharmaceutical products.

Suitable in vitro conditions are known to the skilled artisan. In thisregard it can be referred to, e.g., the Eur. Ph. Preferably, the releaseprofile is measured under the following conditions: Paddle apparatusequipped without sinker, 50 rpm, 37±5° C., 900 mL simulated intestinalfluid pH 6.8 (phosphate buffer) or pH 4.5. In a preferred embodiment,the rotational speed of the paddle is increased to 75 rpm.

In a preferred embodiment, the tablet according to the invention isadapted for administration once daily. In another preferred embodiment,the tablet according to the invention is adapted for administrationtwice daily. In still another preferred embodiment, the tablet accordingto the invention is adapted for administration thrice daily. In yetanother preferred embodiment, the tablet according to the invention isadapted for administration more frequently than thrice daily, forexample 4 times daily, 5 times daily, 6 times daily, 7 times daily or 8times daily.

For the purpose of the specification, “twice daily” means equal ornearly equal time intervals, i.e., about every 12 hours, or differenttime intervals, e.g., 8 and 16 hours or 10 and 14 hours, between theindividual administrations.

For the purpose of the specification, “thrice daily” means equal ornearly equal time intervals, i.e., about every 8 hours, or differenttime intervals, e.g., 6, 6 and 12 hours; or 7, 7 and 10 hours, betweenthe individual administrations.

Preferably, the tablet according to the invention has under in vitroconditions a disintegration time measured in accordance with Ph. Eur. ofat most 5 minutes, more preferably at most 4 minutes, still morepreferably at most 3 minutes, yet more preferably at most 2.5 minutes,most preferably at most 2 minutes and in particular at most 1.5 minutes.

It has been surprisingly found that oral dosage forms can be designedthat provide the best compromise between tamper-resistance,disintegration time and drug release, drug load, processability(especially tablettability) and patient compliance.

It has been found that the disintegration time of the tablets accordingto the invention can be influenced by the relative weight ratio ofmatrix material:particulates. In general, it was observed that thehigher this ratio the faster disintegration. However, this ratio cannotbe increased ad ultimo, as further tablet properties need to be takeninto account, particularly drug load and total tablet size and weight.As a certain dosage of pharmacologically active compound needs to beadministered, the content of particulates should still be sufficientlyhigh and the total tablet weight should not exceed a certain limit, asthis would deteriorate patient compliance, e.g. swallowability.

The situation is more complicated by trends in opposite direction. Inparticular, it has been found that the tablettability of the tabletsaccording to the invention can also be influenced by the relative weightratio of matrix material:particulates. In general, it was observed thatthe lower this ratio the better the tablettability. This trend parallelsthe trend of the drug load.

Thus, disintegration time on the one hand and tablettability/drug loadon the other hand can be optimized by finding the best compromise.

Similarly, tamper-resistance and drug release also antagonize eachother. While smaller particulates should typically show a faster releaseof the pharmacologically active compound, tamper-resistance requiressome minimal size of the particulates in order to effectively preventabuse, e.g. i.v. administration. The larger the particulates are theless they are suitable for being abused nasally. The smaller theparticulates are the faster gel formation occurs.

Thus, drug release on the one hand and tamper-resistance on the otherhand can be optimized by finding the best compromise.

Preferred embodiments D¹ to D⁴ of the tablets according to the inventionare summarized in the table here below:

[wt.-%, relative to weight of tablet] D¹ D² D³ D⁴ tablet total weight[mg] 500 ± 300 500 ± 250 500 ± 200 500 ± 150 particulates total content[wt.-%] 50 ± 15  50 ± 12.5 50 ± 10  50 ± 7.5 average particle size [μm]800 ± 400 800 ± 300 800 ± 200 800 ± 100 content of ph. active compound23 ± 20 23 ± 15 23 ± 10 23 ± 5  content of polyalkylene oxide [wt.-%] 22± 12 22 ± 10 22 ± 8  22 ± 6  content of plasticizer [wt.-%]  4 ± 3.5 4 ±3  4 ± 2.5 4 ± 2 content of further excipients [wt.-%] 0.05 ± 0.05 0.05± 0.04 0.05 ± 0.03 0.05 ± 0.02 matrix material total content [wt.-%] 49± 15 49 ± 12 49 ± 9  49 ± 6  content of filler(s)/binder(s) [wt.-%] 43 ±10 43 ± 8  43 ± 6  43 ± 4  content of disintegrant [wt.-%] 5 ± 4  5 ±3.5 5 ± 3  5 ± 2.5 content of lubricant [wt.-%] 0.15 ± 0.15 0.15 ± 0.140.15 ± 0.13 0.15 ± 0.12

The particulates according to the invention are preferably prepared bymelt-extrusion, although also other methods of thermoforming may be usedin order to manufacture the particulates according to the invention suchas press-molding at elevated temperature or heating of particulates thatwere manufactured by conventional compression in a first step and thenheated above the softening temperature of the polyalkylene oxide in theparticulates in a second step to form hard tablets. In this regards,thermoforming means the forming, or molding of a mass after theapplication of heat. In a preferred embodiment, the particulates arethermoformed by hot-melt extrusion.

In a preferred embodiment, the particulates are prepared by hotmelt-extrusion, preferably by means of a twin-screw-extruder. Meltextrusion preferably provides a melt-extruded strand that is preferablycut into monoliths, which are then optionally compressed and formed intoparticulates. Preferably, compression is achieved by means of a die anda punch, preferably from a monolithic mass obtained by melt extrusion.If obtained via melt extrusion, the compressing step is preferablycarried out with a monolithic mass exhibiting ambient temperature, thatis, a temperature in the range from 20 to 25° C. The strands obtained byway of extrusion can either be subjected to the compression step as suchor can be cut prior to the compression step. This cutting can beperformed by usual techniques, for example using rotating knives orcompressed air, at elevated temperature, e.g. when the extruded stand isstill warm due to hot-melt extrusion, or at ambient temperature, i.e.after the extruded strand has been allowed to cool down. When theextruded strand is still warm, singulation of the extruded strand intoextruded particulates is preferably performed by cutting the extrudedstrand immediately after it has exited the extrusion die. However, whenthe extruded strand is cut in the cooled state, subsequent singulationof the extruded strand into extruded particulates is preferablyperformed by optionally transporting the still hot extruded strand bymeans of conveyor belts, allowing it to cool down and to congeal, andsubsequently cutting it into extruded particulates. Alternatively, theshaping can take place as described in EP-A 240 906 by the extrudatebeing passed between two counter-rotating calender rolls and beingshaped directly to particulates. It is of course also possible tosubject the extruded strands to the compression step or to the cuttingstep when still warm, that is more or less immediately after theextrusion step. The extrusion is preferably carried out by means of atwin-screw extruder.

The particulates according to the invention may be produced by differentprocesses, the particularly preferred of which are explained in greaterdetail below. Several suitable processes have already been described inthe prior art. In this regard it can be referred to, e.g., WO2005/016313, WO 2005/016314, WO 2005/063214, WO 2005/102286, WO2006/002883, WO 2006/002884, WO 2006/002886, WO 2006/082097, and WO2006/082099.

In general, the process for the production of the particulates accordingto the invention preferably comprises the following steps:

-   (a) mixing all ingredients;-   (b) optionally pre-forming the mixture obtained from step (a),    preferably by applying heat and/or force to the mixture obtained    from step (a), the quantity of heat supplied preferably not being    sufficient to heat the polyalkylene oxide up to its softening point;-   (c) hardening the mixture by applying heat and force, it being    possible to supply the heat during and/or before the application of    force and the quantity of heat supplied being sufficient to heat the    polyalkylene oxide at least up to its softening point; and    thereafter allowing the material to cool and removing the force-   (d) optionally singulating the hardened mixture;-   (e) optionally shaping the particulates; and-   (f) optionally providing a film coating.

Heat may be supplied directly, e.g. by contact or by means of hot gassuch as hot air, or with the assistance of ultrasound; or is indirectlysupplied by friction and/or shear. Force may be applied and/or theparticulates may be shaped for example by direct tabletting or with theassistance of a suitable extruder, particularly by means of a screwextruder equipped with one or two screws (single-screw-extruder andtwin-screw-extruder, respectively) or by means of a planetary gearextruder.

The final shape of the particulates may either be provided during thehardening of the mixture by applying heat and force (step (c)) or in asubsequent step (step (e)). In both cases, the mixture of all componentsis preferably in the plastified state, i.e. preferably, shaping isperformed at a temperature at least above the softening point of thepolyalkylene oxide. However, extrusion at lower temperatures, e.g.ambient temperature, is also possible and may be preferred.

Shaping can be performed, e.g., by means of a tabletting presscomprising die and punches of appropriate shape.

A particularly preferred process for the manufacture of the particulatesaccording to the invention involves hot-melt extrusion. In this process,the particulates according to the invention are produced bythermoforming with the assistance of an extruder, preferably withoutthere being any observable consequent discoloration of the extrudate.

This process is characterized in that

-   -   a) all components are mixed,    -   b) the resultant mixture is heated in the extruder at least up        to the softening point of the polyalkylene oxide and extruded        through the outlet orifice of the extruder by application of        force,    -   c) the still plastic extrudate is singulated and formed into the        particulates or    -   d) the cooled and optionally reheated singulated extrudate is        formed into the particulates.

Mixing of the components according to process step a) may also proceedin the extruder.

The components may also be mixed in a mixer known to the person skilledin the art. The mixer may, for example, be a roll mixer, shaking mixer,shear mixer or compulsory mixer.

The, preferably molten, mixture which has been heated in the extruder atleast up to the softening point of polyalkylene oxide is extruded fromthe extruder through a die with at least one bore.

The process according to the invention requires the use of suitableextruders, preferably screw extruders. Screw extruders which areequipped with two screws (twin-screw-extruders) are particularlypreferred.

Preferably, extrusion is performed in the absence of water, i.e., nowater is added. However, traces of water (e.g., caused by atmospherichumidity) may be present.

The extruder preferably comprises at least two temperature zones, withheating of the mixture at least up to the softening point of thepolyalkylene oxide proceeding in the first zone, which is downstreamfrom a feed zone and optionally mixing zone. The throughput of themixture is preferably from 1.0 kg to 15 kg/hour. In a preferredembodiment, the throughput is from 0.5 kg/hour to 3.5 kg/hour. Inanother preferred embodiment, the throughput is from 4 to 15 kg/hour.

In a preferred embodiment, the die head pressure is within the range offrom 25 to 200 bar. The die head pressure can be adjusted inter alia bydie geometry, temperature profile, extrusion speed, number of bores inthe dies, screw configuration, first feeding steps in the extruder, andthe like.

The die geometry or the geometry of the bores is freely selectable. Thedie or the bores may accordingly exhibit a round, oblong or ovalcross-section, wherein the round cross-section preferably has a diameterof 0.1 mm to 2 mm. Preferably, the die or the bores have a roundcross-section. The casing of the extruder used according to theinvention may be heated or cooled. The corresponding temperaturecontrol, i.e. heating or cooling, is so arranged that the mixture to beextruded exhibits at least an average temperature (product temperature)corresponding to the softening temperature of the polyalkylene oxide anddoes not rise above a temperature at which the pharmacologically activecompound to be processed may be damaged. Preferably, the temperature ofthe mixture to be extruded is adjusted to below 180° C., preferablybelow 150° C., but at least to the softening temperature of polyalkyleneoxide. Typical extrusion temperatures are 120° C. and 150° C.

In a preferred embodiment, the extruder torque is within the range offrom 30 to 95%. Extruder torque can be adjusted inter alia by diegeometry, temperature profile, extrusion speed, number of bores in thedies, screw configuration, first feeding steps in the extruder, and thelike.

After extrusion of the molten mixture and optional cooling of theextruded strand or extruded strands, the extrudates are preferablysingulated. This singulation may preferably be performed by cutting upthe extrudates by means of revolving or rotating knives, wires, bladesor with the assistance of laser cutters.

Preferably, intermediate or final storage of the optionally singulatedextrudate or the final shape of the particulates according to theinvention is performed under oxygen-free atmosphere which may beachieved, e.g., by means of oxygen-scavengers.

The singulated extrudate may be press-formed into particulates in orderto impart the final shape to the particulates.

The application of force in the extruder onto the at least plasticizedmixture is adjusted by controlling the rotational speed of the conveyingdevice in the extruder and the geometry thereof and by dimensioning theoutlet orifice in such a manner that the pressure necessary forextruding the plasticized mixture is built up in the extruder,preferably immediately prior to extrusion. The extrusion parameterswhich, for each particular composition, are necessary to give rise to atablet with desired mechanical properties, may be established by simplepreliminary testing.

For example but not limiting, extrusion may be performed by means of atwin-screw-extruder type ZSE 18 or ZSE27 (Leistritz, Nürnberg, Germany),screw diameters of 18 or 27 mm. Screws having eccentric or blunt endsmay be used. A heatable die with a round bore or with a multitude ofbores each having a diameter of 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9or 1.0 mm may be used. The extrusion parameters may be adjusted e.g. tothe following values: rotational speed of the screws: 120 Upm; deliveryrate 2 kg/h for a ZSE 18 or 3 kg/h, 8 kg/h, or even 10 kg/h and more fora ZSE27; product temperature: in front of die 125° C. and behind die135° C.; and jacket temperature: 110° C. The throughput can generally beincreased by increasing the number of dies at the extruder outlet.

Preferably, extrusion is performed by means of twin-screw-extruders orplanetary-gear-extruders, twin-screw extruders (co-rotating orcontra-rotating) being particularly preferred.

The particulates according to the invention are preferably produced bythermoforming with the assistance of an extruder without any observableconsequent discoloration of the extrudates.

The process for the preparation of the particulates according to theinvention is preferably performed continuously. Preferably, the processinvolves the extrusion of a homogeneous mixture of all components. It isparticularly advantageous if the thus obtained intermediate, e.g. thestrand obtained by extrusion, exhibits uniform properties. Particularlydesirable are uniform density, uniform distribution of the activecompound, uniform mechanical properties, uniform porosity, uniformappearance of the surface, etc. Only under these circumstances theuniformity of the pharmacological properties, such as the stability ofthe release profile, may be ensured and the amount of rejects can bekept low.

Preferably, the particulates according to the invention can be regardedas “extruded pellets”. The term “extruded pellets” has structuralimplications which are understood by persons skilled in the art. Aperson skilled in the art knows that pelletized dosage forms can beprepared by a number of techniques, including:

-   -   drug layering on nonpareil sugar or microcrystalline cellulose        beads,    -   spray drying,    -   spray congealing,    -   rotogranulation,    -   hot-melt extrusion,    -   spheronization of low melting materials, or    -   extrusion-spheronization of a wet mass.

Accordingly, “extruded pellets” can be obtained either by hot-meltextrusion or by extrusion-spheronization.

“Extruded pellets” can be distinguished from other types of pellets, asextruded pellets typically have a different shape. The shape of theextruded pellets is typically more cut-rod-like than perfectly globatedround.

“Extruded pellets” can be distinguished from other types of pelletsbecause they are structurally different. For example, drug layering onnonpareils yields multilayered pellets having a core, whereas extrusiontypically yields a monolithic mass comprising a homogeneous mixture ofall ingredients. Similarly, spray drying and spray congealing typicallyyield spheres, whereas extrusion typically yields cylindrical extrudateswhich can be subsequently spheronized.

The structural differences between “extruded pellets” and “agglomeratedpellets” are significant because they may affect the release of activesubstances from the pellets and consequently result in differentpharmacological profiles. Therefore, a person skilled in thepharmaceutical formulation art would not consider “extruded pellets” tobe equivalent to “agglomerated pellets”.

The tablets according to the invention may be prepared by anyconventional method. Preferably, however, the tablets are prepared bycompression. Thus, particulates as hereinbefore defined are preferablymixed, e.g. blended and/or granulated (e.g. wet granulated), with matrixmaterial and the resulting mix (e.g. blend or granulate) is thencompressed, preferably in moulds, to form tablets. It is also envisagedthat the particulates herein described may be incorporated into a matrixusing other processes, such as by melt granulation (e.g. using fattyalcohols and/or water-soluble waxes and/or water-insoluble waxes) orhigh shear granulation, followed by compression.

When the tablets according to the invention are manufactured by means ofan eccentric press, the compression force is preferably within the rangeof from 5 to 15 kN. When the tablets according to the invention aremanufactured by means of a rotating press, the compression force ispreferably within the range of from 5 to 40 kN, in certainembodiments >25 kN, in other embodiments about 13 kN.

The tablets according to the invention may optionally comprise acoating, e.g. a cosmetic coating. The coating is preferably appliedafter formation of the tablet. The coating may be applied prior to orafter the curing process. Preferred coatings are Opadry® coatingsavailable from Colorcon. Other preferred coating are Opaglos® coatings,also commercially available from Colorcon.

The tablet according to the invention is characterized by excellentstorage stability. Preferably, after storage for 4 weeks at 40° C. and75% rel. humidity, the content of pharmacologically active compoundamounts to at least 98.0%, more preferably at least 98.5%, still morepreferably at least 99.0%, yet more preferably at least 99.2%, mostpreferably at least 99.4% and in particular at least 99.6%, of itsoriginal content before storage. Suitable methods for measuring thecontent of the pharmacologically active compound in the tablet are knownto the skilled artisan. In this regard it is referred to the Eur. Ph. orthe USP, especially to reversed phase HPLC analysis. Preferably, thetablet is stored in closed, preferably sealed containers.

Further aspects according to the invention—basis for additional claimcategories

The particulates and tablets according to the invention may be used inmedicine, e.g. as an analgesic. The particulates and tablets aretherefore particularly suitable for the treatment or management of pain.In such tablets, the pharmacologically active compound is preferably ananalgesic.

A further aspect according to the invention relates to the tablet asdescribed above for use in the treatment of pain.

A further aspect according to the invention relates to the use of atablet as described above for avoiding or hindering the abuse of thepharmacologically active compound contained therein.

A further aspect according to the invention relates to the use of atablet as described above for avoiding or hindering the unintentionaloverdose of the pharmacologically active compound contained therein.

In this regard, the invention also relates to the use of apharmacologically active compound as described above and/or apolyalkylene oxide as described above for the manufacture of the tabletaccording to the invention for the prophylaxis and/or the treatment of adisorder, thereby preventing an overdose of the pharmacologically activecompound, particularly due to comminution of the tablet by mechanicalaction.

EXAMPLES

The following examples further illustrate the invention but are not tobe construed as limiting its scope.

Example 1

The relevance of the particulate size on tamper resistance wasinvestigated.

It was found that comparatively small particulates, e.g. particulateshaving a diameter and length of 0.5 mm×0.5 mm already provide a certaindegree of tamper resistance: when administered nasally they cause anunpleasant feeling and furthermore, due to the lack of water on themucous membrane, do not release the pharmacologically active compound asquick as when being administered orally. Therefore, a kick or rush canunlikely be achieved by nasal administration of such particulates. Thus,even when being administered nasally, such comparatively smallparticulates already provide tamper resistance, i.e. avoid drug abuse orat least make drug abuse substantially more difficult. Furthermore, suchcomparatively small particulates have excellent swelling propertiesthereby effectively preventing conversion into a liquid formulation forintravenous administration.

It was found that tamper-resistance can even further be improved byincreasing the particulate size, e.g. to a diameter and length of 1.0mm×1.0 mm. Such particulates even provide a more unpleasant feeling whenbeing administered nasally and in the absence of sufficient water,rather slowly release the pharmacologically active compound. Further,they cannot be easily converted into a liquid formulation forintravenous administration either.

As such a more pronounced retardant effect, however, is detrimental forthe desired immediate release upon prescribed oral administration of thetablets, a compromise must be found between tamper resistance on the onehand and immediate drug release upon prescribed oral administration onthe other hand, particularly with respect to disintegration time anddrug release kinetics. Furthermore, drug load, processability(especially tablettability) and patient compliance are also importantrequirements to be satisfied with.

A predetermined particulate size of 800 μm×800 μm was considered mostappropriate, i.e. it was considered most appropriate to adjust thediameter of the extrusion die as well as cutting length of the extrudedstand to 800 μm taking into consideration that die swelling may occurduring the extrusion process, particularly when the strand exits thedie, so that the diameter of the extruded strand in fact is expanded,depending upon the composition and the extrusion parameters to adiameter of about 1000 μm. Thus, when proceedings this way, it wasconsidered most appropriate to manufacture extruded particulates havinga diameter of about 1000 μm (after die swelling, diameter of extrusiondie 800 μm) and a length of about 800 μm.

Example 2

Different particulate compositions were investigated and particulates ofdifferent sizes were manufactured thereform.

The particulate compositions are summarized in the table here below:

[wt.-%] 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Tramadol HCl 46.59 46.59 46.59 38.83 — — — —45.59 Tapentadol HCl — — — — 46.59 46.59 46.59 33.28 — PEG 6000 5.316.32 4.31 8.33 8.31 8.31 8.32 10.00 8.40 HPMC 100 000 5.00 6.00 4.009.33 — — 8.00 12.57 8.00 PEO 7 Mio 33.00 35.99 45.00 43.49 45.00 45.0036.99 44.14 36.99 α-tocopherol 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.01 0.10 0.10 0.1 0.010.01 Lutrol 127 10.00 — — — — — — — — PVP CL — 5.00 — — — — — — — totalweight 250 mg 250 mg 250 mg 300 mg 250 mg 250 mg 250 mg 350 mg 250 mg[mg] film coating — — — — — 3.88 — — — AMB varnish

All materials were weighed, sieved (manual sieve, 1 mm), blended (BohleLM40 with MC5 or MC10, depending on size of bath) for 15 minutes at 14rpm, and hot-melt extruded (Leistritz extruder Type ZSE18 with differentconfiguration of screws).

The compositions 1 to 9 were extruded under the following extrusionconditions:

1, 4, 7, 9 2 3 5 and 6 8 Heating zone 1  20° C.  20° C.  20° C. 20 25Heating zone 2 100° C. 100° C. 100° C. 100 100 Heating zone 3 100° C.100° C. 100° C. 100 100 Heating zone 4 120° C. 140° C. 120° C. 120 100Heating zone 5 120° C. 120° C. 120° C. 120 100 Heating zone 6 120° C.120° C. 120° C. 120 100 Heating zone 7 120° C. 140° C. 120° C. 120 100Heating zone 8 120° C. 140° C. 120° C. 120 100 Heating zone 10 120° C.140° C. 120° C. 120 120 Heating zone 11 130° C. 150° C. 130° C. 130 120Screw speed 100 100 100 100 100 [rpm] Throughput 10.00- 16.66- 16.6616.66 16.66 [g/min] 16.66 28.04 Screw low low low extreme lowconfiguration shear shear shear shear shear

For larger scales, screw configuration can be adopted and temperaturescan be raised (e.g., HZ8 and 10: 130° C., HZ11: 145° C.; or HZ11: 150°C. and extreme shear configuration, throughput 25 g/min).

The in vitro release characteristics were monitored in 900 mL 0.1N HClat 37° C., using a paddle apparatus 50 rpm. The results are depicted inFIG. 3.

Example 3

The influence of the content of particulates in the tablet wasinvestigated.

The following compositions were tested:

300 mg particulates in tablets having a total weight of 600 mg250 mg particulates in tablets having a total weight of 600 mg200 mg particulates in tablets having a total weight of 600 mg

The most promising compromise between tablettability and size revealedto be 250 mg particulates in tablets having a total weight of 500 mg.Tablets having a total weight of 600 mg were considered too large withrespect to patient compliance, although the relative weight ratio ofparticulates to matrix material of about 1:1 appeared advantageous withrespect to disintegration time and dissolution time.

Example 4-1

The influence of the matrix material was investigated—wet granulation.

Granules having the following composition were prepared formanufacturing of pellet-tablets. Granules for outer the phase, i.e. thematrix material, were manufactured by wet granulation. Granules andpellets were blended. Segregation (optically) and disintegration oftablets after compression were evaluated. Tablets were manufactured“manually” (components were separately weighed for each tablet and mixeddirectly prior to tabletting) using a single station press (Korsch EK0):

a Galen IQ, Na no segregation in mixture disintegration test: nocarboxymethylstarch (5%) detectable, detectable aqueous granulation inDiosna disintegration after 3 min. b Galen IQ, Kollidon CL (5%) nosegregation in mixture disintegration test: aqueous granulation inDiosna detectable slightly dissolved mixture showed substantial surfaceafter 3 min. punch deposit upon compression of 3 tablets already cAvicel with PVP-solution significant segregation in disintegration test:granulated mixture detectable partial disintegration after 3 min. dMCC + lactose(20:80) with PVP- no segregation in mixture disintegrationtest: no solution granulated detectable detectable disintegration after3 min. d MCC + lactose (50:50) with PVP- slight segregation in mixturedisintegration test: solution granulated detectable partialdisintegration after 3 min. e Gelcarin + lactose (20% + 80%) + nosegregation in mixture disintegration test: no water (57% + 43%)detectable detectable disintegration after 3 min. f sugar ester S-1570 +tricalcium- significant segregation in disintegration test: nophosphate + Acivel + Gelcarin mixture detectable detectabledisintegration after 3 min. g incrustation granulate from the granulatecould not be no tablets saccharose processed or only with manufactureddifficulties blending with particulates is not possible −> thus, notablets were manufactured

It was not possible to manufacture rapidly disintegrating tablets fromthe above compositions, probably because the disintegrants lose thedisintegrating capacity in the course of the wet granulation process.

Example 4-2

The influence of the matrix material was investigated—drygranulation—roller compaction.

The following compositions were processed by slugging involving thesteps of:

-   -   weighing/dispensing of components    -   sieving/blending    -   manufacture of bi-planar tablets of 20 mm diameter using a        single station press (Korsch EK0), 25 kN compression force    -   breaking the tablets into parts (manually) and sieving using a        Frewitt Sieving machine (1.5 mm mesh size)    -   employing granules as outer phase/matrix material for        pellet-tablets

The experimental results are summarized in the following table:

compacted material tablet surface released Tramadol Avicel PVP(compression (compression film after 30 min excipient Pellets 101Lactose Mg-stearate CL Esma-spreng Primojel NaCMC force 20-25 kN) force7.5 kN) disintegration coated form a 87.4 50.00% 22.25% 22.25% 0.50%5.00% OK − + no Round 12 mm (5 kN) biplan (5 kN and 10 kN), oblong 7 ×17 mm (7.5 kN) b 64.1 50.00% 45.00% 5.00% OK 0 + no Round 12 mm biplan cn.d. 15% 50.00% 29.5% 0.50% 5.00% OK − −− no Round 12 mm PEG6000 bipland 87.7 50.00% 45.00% 5.00% slightly ++ ++ no Round 12 mm unstable biplane 72.2 50.00% 45.00% 5.00% OK 0 + no Round 12 mm biplan f n.d. 50.00%45.00% 5.00% OK 0 − no Round 12 mm biplan g n.d. 15% 50.00% 25.00%adheres − −− no Round 12 mm NaHCO₃ punch to biplan 10% citric matrixacid i 71.1 1% xanthan 50.00% 44.00% 5.00% can only be − 0 no Round 12mm compacted biplan with difficulties j-1 77.4 45% Prosolv 50.00% 5.00%OK + ++ no Round 12 mm SMCCHD90 biplan j-2 81.2 50% Prosolv 50.00% OK 0++ no Round 12 mm SMCCHD90 biplan k 28.4 45% Parteck 50.00% 5.00% OK 0 +no l n.d. 50% Zaldiar 50.00% adheres − −− no Round 12 mm effervescentpunch to biplan tablet matrix m 77.6 50.00% 22.25% 22.25% 0.50% 5.00%OK + no Round 12 mm biplan m′ 89.9 50.98% 21.81% 21.81% 0.49% 4.90% OK +yes Round 12 mm biplan n 78.2 50.00% 22.25% 22.25% 0.50% 5.00% OK 0 noRound 12 mm biplan n′ 92.9 50.98% 21.81% 21.81% 0.49% 4.90% OK 0 yesRound 12 mm biplan n″ 86.3 50.98% 21.81% 21.81% 0.49% 4.90% OK 0 yespenta- gonal o 60.0 45% Prosolv 50.00% 5.00% OK 0 no Round 12 mmSMCCHD90 biplan o′ 90.5 44.12% 50.98% 4.90% OK 0 yes Round 12 mm Prosolvbiplan SMCCHD90 o″ 75.4 44.12% 50.98% 4.90% OK 0 yes penta- Prosolvgonal SMCCHD90 p 74.3 45% Prosolv 50.00% 5.00% OK 0 no Round 12 mmSMCCHD90 biplan p′ 93.5 44.12% 50.98% 4.90% OK 0 yes Round 12 mm Prosolvbiplan SMCCHD90 q 54.3 50.00% 42.50% 7.50% OK 0 no Round 12 mm biplaneq′ 60.2 50.98% 41.67% 7.35% OK 0 yes Round 12 mm biplane r 69.3 50.00%42.50% 7.50% OK 0 no Round 12 mm biplane r′ 84.8 50.98% 41.67% 7.35% OK0 yes Round 12 mm biplane u 39.9 50% 50.00% no Round 12 mm MicroceLacbiplane u′ 70.3 50% 50.00% yes Round 12 mm MicroceLac biplane v 78.6 50%50.00% no Round 12 mm EASYtab SP biplane v′ 93.5 50% 50.00% + + yesRound 12 mm EASYtab SP biplane w n.d. 50% 50.00% + ++ no Round 12 mmEASYtab SP biplane w′ n.d. 50% 50.00% yes Round 12 mm EASYtab SP biplan++ good, + satisfactory, 0 acceptable, − deficient, −− inacceptable

The release characteristics of tablets containing the thus compactedmatrix material were investigated. The results are depicted in FIG. 4(900 mL HCl, 50 rpm, paddle apparatus without sinker).

Example 4-3

Since the slugging method is not state of the art for dry granulation,corresponding tests concerning dry granulation were conducted by meansof a roller compactor. This has the advantage that all relevantparameters (roller displacement, compression force, granulator size) canbe adjusted such that a granulate having the desired properties isobtained (particle size, hardness, compressibility, density).

Parameters (Gerteis MiniPactor):

roller displacement: 2 to 3 mmrevolution velocity: 2 to 5 rpmcompaction force: 3 to 15 kN/cmscreen size: 1.0 to 1.25 to 1.5 to 2.0 mm

The thus prepared compacts (dry granulates) were blended withparticulates and compressed to tablets. Upon blending, lubricant(magnesium stearate and sodium stearylfumarate, respectively) was addedas an external excipient neither contained in the compacts nor in theparticulates.

Batch #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 Avicel PH 101 95.00% 50.00% Esma Spreng 5.00%Prosolv SMCC 95.00% 100.00% HD 90 Na-CMC 5.00% Lactose Monohy- 50.00%drate 230 Prosolv Easytab 100.00%

The experiments revealed that tablets made from compacts and made fromslugging-granulates show a similarly fast release.

Confirming Experiments:

Batch #6 #7 #8 #9 #10 #11 #12 Avicel  89.5% 94.5  89% 89.50% 89.70% PH101 Avicel DG 89.5% Esma 10.00% 5% Spreng Prosolv 87.5% SMCC HD 90Na-CMC   12% PVP CL 10%   10%   10%   10% Na-  1% stearyl- fumarate Mg0.5 0.5  0.5% 0.5   0.5%  0.3% stearate

Example 4-4

Tablets (500 mg) were prepared from the particulates according toExample 2-5 (250 mg) and the matrix material according to Example 4-3#12 (250 mg).

The in vitro release was determined according to Ph. Eur.:

time % released (n = 6) 0 0.0 5 56.8 10 83.4 15 93.3 20 98.1 25 99.9 30101.1 35 101.4 40 101.7 45 101.9 50 102.0 55 102.0 60 102.0

The in vitro release of the tablets was compared to a non-tamperresistant commercial product containing Tapentadol HCl (film coatedtablets). After 30 minutes (according to Ph. Eur. 2.9.3), bothformulations released the entire amount of the pharmacologically activeingredient (100%).

Example 5

The mechanical properties of conventional, commercial neutral pelletswere investigated under the following conditions:

5-1 (comparative) 5-2 5-3 product pellets neutral tramadol tramadol(Hans G. Werner TRF IR TRF IR GmbH & Co.) pellets pellets Tramadol HCl46.59 wt.-% 4.17 wt.-% PEG 6000  8.31 wt.-% 8.33 wt.-% vitamin E  0.10wt.-% 0.20 wt.-% PEO 45.00 wt.-% 87.30 wt.-%  diameter pellets 0.85mm-1.00 mm test equipment Zwick/Roell type BTC-FR2.5TH.D09 force sensorKAF-TC/2.5 kN software applications testXpert V10.11 measuring equipmentplate 2.5 cm × 9.0 cm + ambos 2.0 cm × 4.0 cm speed 10 mm/min soft end192 mm 192 mm 192 mm

The reduction of the displacement between plate and ambos x in mm(=“compression [c]”) and the corresponding force f in N were measured.The maximum force f_(max) measured during the measurement and thecorresponding reduction of displacement x_(max) are summarized in thetable here below:

5-1 (FIG. 7) 5-2 (FIG. 8) 5-3 (FIG. 9) f_(max) [N] x_(max) [mm] f_(max)[N] x_(max) [mm] f_(max) [N] x_(max) [mm] mean 5.272 0.01 587.285 0.87588.255 0.89 s 2.129 0.03 2.320 0.06 2.897 0.05 ν 40.37 198.70 0.40 6.730.49 5.13 min 2.260 0.00 585.226 0.82 583.385 0.82 max 8.432 0.08592.581 1.00 592.413 0.96

It becomes clear from the above data that the comparative particulatesof example 5-1 break at very low forces of only about 5 N and can bedeformed by less than 0.1 mm. In contrast, the inventive particulates ofexamples 5-2 and 5-3 do not break at all, and can be deformed(flattened) by more than 0.8 mm.

The corresponding force-displacement-diagrams are shown in FIGS. 7, 8and 9, respectively.

1. A tamper-resistant tablet comprising (i) a matrix material in anamount of more than one third of the total weight of the tablet; and(ii) a plurality of particulates in an amount of less than two thirds ofthe total weight of the tablet; wherein said particulates comprise apharmacologically active compound and a polyalkylene oxide; and form adiscontinuous phase within the matrix material.
 2. The tablet accordingto claim 1, which provides under in vitro conditions immediate releaseof the pharmacologically active compound in accordance with Ph. Eur. 3.The tablet according to claim 2, which has under in vitro conditions adisintegration time measured in accordance with Ph. Eur. of at most 3minutes.
 4. The tablet according to claim 1, wherein the content of thematrix material is at least 40 wt.-%, based on the total weight of thetablet.
 5. The tablet according to claim 1, wherein thepharmacologically active compound is an opioid.
 6. The tablet accordingto claim 1, wherein the particulates have an average diameter of about1000±250 μm and/or an average length of about 750±250 μm.
 7. The tabletaccording to claim 1, wherein the pharmacologically active compound isdispersed in the polyalkylene oxide.
 8. The tablet according to claim 1,wherein the content of the polyalkylene oxide is at least 25 wt.-%,based on the total weight of a particulate.
 9. The tablet according toclaim 1, wherein the content of the pharmacologically active compound isat least 25 wt.-%, based on the total weight of a particulate.
 10. Thetablet according to claim 1, wherein the particulates are hotmelt-extruded.
 11. The tablet according to claim 1, wherein theparticulates are film coated.
 12. The tablet according to claim 1,wherein the matrix material is also present in particulate form.
 13. Thetablet according to claim 1, wherein the matrix material is drygranulated or compacted.
 14. The tablet according to claim 1, whereinthe matrix material comprises binder, filler, disintegrant and/orlubricant.
 15. The tablet according to claim 14, wherein thedisintegrant is crosslinked.
 16. A method of treating a condition in apatient in need thereof by administering to a patient in need of suchtreating a tablet comprising an effective amount therefor of apharmacologically active compound, wherein the tablet is a tabletaccording to claim
 1. 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein thecondition is pain.
 18. The method according to claim 17, wherein thepharmacologically active compound is an opioid.